Harry
Musicians around London -- some of them, anyway -- know Harry Smith's name: he's the guy you call when someone in your band turns up sick, stoned, dead, or doesn't show up at all. He's the guy who'll be there on time, who'll know his parts, who'll do the gig without trying to make himself the star, who won't bitch about the money and who doesn't give a shit about how trashed the venue is.
In short, Harry Smith is the ideal sideman -- at least, as long as you're not too fussed about looks, dress sense, or manners. Yeah, sometimes he makes people a little nervous for no obvious reason, but he has no qualms with standing out of the spotlight and letting the more fame-hungry members of the band attract all the attention. As long as he gets paid, the details are up to whoever's got the money.
- Are you a fan of live music? You might potentially recognize Harry as a "that guy" who's appeared in a large number of bands over the last 15-20 years.
- If you're a musician yourself, you may possibly have played with Harry at some point. He's no virtuouso, just an unobtrusive professional who does his job and doesn't let it go to his head.
- People who were involved with the London criminal underworld 20-plus years ago may have some vague memories of a much younger Harry's surprisingly competent work as a second-story man. It's been years since he's done any work of that sort, but he was pretty good when he did.
- Anyone who enjoys the seedy, run-down, and grungy -- or who hangs out there whether they enjoy it or not -- may have at least a nodding acquaintance with Harry.
- Dire Straits, Sultans of Swing
Played By: Mark Knopfler
