"Walk of Life," from Dire Straits' 1985 album Brothers in Arms, tells the story of a busker named Johnny who plays oldies in the subway, trying to make a living. The song was inspired by a photograph of a kid playing guitar in a subway, turning his face to the wall for reverb, which reminded Mark Knopfler of his own early days of trying to make a loud noise from his guitar without an amplifier. Though initially intended as a B-side, the band's manager convinced Knopfler to include it on the album. The track itself features a simple rock and roll rhythm, often making it feel like an ode to the enduring spirit of musicians.