John Illsley, born in Leicester on 2 September 1949, is a British musician and bassist, primarily known as a founding member of the rock band Dire Straits. Along with frontman Mark Knopfler, he was the only member to remain in the lineup throughout the band's entire career, from 1977 to 1995. His melodic and essential bass style was instrumental in defining the group's signature sound, providing the rhythmic foundation for worldwide hits such as "Sultans of Swing" and "Money for Nothing," to which he also contributed backing vocals. After Dire Straits disbanded, he embarked on a solo career, releasing several albums, including "Never Told a Soul" and "Long Shadows," and has continued to perform live. Alongside his music, he has successfully pursued painting, exhibiting his works in various galleries. In 2018, as a member of Dire Straits, he received one of music's highest honors with his induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.