In the 21st century, Manchester is celebrated not only for its industrial heritage but also for its vibrant music scene. During the latter half of the 20th century, Manchester became a cradle of groundbreaking music, giving rise to bands that reshaped the cultural landscape. Among these was The Smiths, a band that captured the hearts of listeners across the UK and beyond. Here’s the story of the legendary Manchester rock band. Next on manchesterski.com.
The Origins of “The Smiths”
The story of The Smiths began in 1978 when the future band members first crossed paths at a concert. Johnny Marr, then just 14, met 19-year-old Steven Morrissey at Manchester’s Apollo Theatre. Sharing similar tastes in music and perspectives on life, their connection sparked the eventual creation of the band.
However, the journey to forming The Smiths wasn’t immediate. It wasn’t until 1982 that guitarist Johnny Marr, along with his friend Steve Pomfret, approached Morrissey—an accomplished wordsmith—to form a new band. Morrissey agreed, and within days, the trio began rehearsals.
Despite the intervening years, the connection between Marr and Morrissey remained strong. Their shared passion for the same bands and their mutual understanding of rhythm and creativity became the foundation of their eventual success.
The Line-Up and Early Songs
The band’s lineup included:
- Steven Morrissey: vocalist and lyricist
- Johnny Marr: guitarist, songwriter, and musician
- Andy Rourke: bassist
- Mike Joyce: drummer
- Craig Gannon: guitarist
Between 1982 and 1983, The Smiths faced challenges in crafting their breakout hit. Creative differences and high expectations delayed their debut single. However, perseverance paid off when, in 1983, they released “Hand in Glove.”
This single was a revolutionary moment in 1980s music. Johnny Marr’s jangling guitar riffs and Morrissey’s melancholic, resonant voice set The Smiths apart from other bands. The track’s unique sound made them one of the standout groups of the era, both in Manchester and across the UK.
The following year, in 1984, The Smiths released their self-titled debut album, featuring tracks like:
- “Reel Around the Fountain”
- “You’ve Got Everything Now”
- “Miserable Lie”
- “Pretty Girls Make Graves”
- “The Hand That Rocks the Cradle”
- “Still Ill”
- “Hand in Glove”
- “What Difference Does It Make?”
- “I Don’t Owe You Anything”
- “Suffer Little Children”
- “This Charming Man”
The album was a massive success, reaching number two on the UK Albums Chart. However, tracks like “Reel Around the Fountain” and “Hand in Glove” drew mixed reactions from critics and audiences. While some hailed them as revolutionary, others interpreted their lyrics as controversial. The band vehemently denied any inappropriate implications, asserting that their music, while melancholic and introspective, was purely artistic.
Their subsequent albums, including “Meat Is Murder” and “The Queen Is Dead,” solidified their position as one of the most influential bands of the 1980s.
Why They Became Icons: Style and Genre
The music of The Smiths was a rich tapestry of styles and genres, making it difficult to categorize under a single label.
- Johnny Marr’s Guitar Work
Marr’s intricate and distinctive guitar riffs became a hallmark of the band’s sound, adding depth and complexity to their music. - Morrissey’s Voice and Lyrics
Morrissey’s unique vocal delivery and poetic, introspective lyrics resonated deeply with fans. His melancholic yet relatable themes struck a chord with listeners worldwide. - Genre Experimentation
The Smiths frequently blended genres, including:- Jangle Pop: Marr’s shimmering guitar riffs echoed the 1960s jangle-pop era, adding vibrancy to their tracks.
- Indie Rock: They were pioneers of the indie rock movement in Manchester and the UK during the 1980s.
- Post-Punk: The band adopted elements of this genre, refining and popularizing it further.
- Alternative Rock and Melancholic Pop: Their diverse musical influences enriched their sound, appealing to a wide audience.
The band’s ability to fuse these styles into cohesive, memorable tracks was a testament to their talent and creativity.
Legacy and Impact
By weaving intricate melodies, poignant lyrics, and innovative genres, The Smiths left an indelible mark on the music world. Their ability to combine diverse elements into a harmonious whole earned them critical acclaim and a devoted fan base.
Even decades after their formation, The Smiths remain a cornerstone of British rock, influencing countless artists and continuing to captivate new generations of music lovers worldwide.