The road to the first success and the circumstances of how it happened are always fascinating and probably most memorable for authors because they changed their lives dramatically. Decisions which could make it or break it, commitment and dedication, but also pure luck such as "a chance meeting with Mark Knopfler" or the Charlie Gillett thing were all part of it why they made it. The rest, as John says, is history. I am surprised how much he actually remembered from all these tours, sessions etc. After all, it must quickly blur into a one huge gig unless there is something memorable about any particular show. You can tell somebody did research for John as there are obviously errors, but the whole thing is quite impressive really. It was certainly great to hear it from one of the founding members.