Biographical Overview & Key Facts

Subject:

The Smiths

Role / Field:

Influential English indie rock band known for Morrissey's lyrics and Johnny Marr's guitar.

Database Source:

2Day Chrono-Wiki & Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

Origins & Early Life

The Smiths were an English rock band formed in Manchester in 1982, consisting of Morrissey (vocals), Johnny Marr (guitar), Andy Rourke (bass) and Mike Joyce (drums). Morrissey and Marr formed the band's principal songwriting partnership. The Smiths are regarded as one of the most important and influential British bands of the 1980s, and as pioneers of indie rock and independent music. The Smiths signed to the independent label Rough Trade Records in 1983 and released their debut studio album, The Smiths, in 1984, reaching number two on the UK Albums Chart.

Pivotal Works & Achievements

Their second album, Meat Is Murder (1985), adopted more political themes and became their only studio album to reach number one in the UK. The band's third album, The Queen Is Dead (1986), received widespread critical acclaim and has since been included in several publications' lists of the greatest albums of all time. Their final studio album, Strangeways, Here We Come (1987), incorporated a broader range of instrumentation and was released amid the band's breakup. Compilation albums include Hatful of Hollow (1984), The World Won't Listen and Louder Than Bombs (both 1987). The Smiths' most popular songs include "This Charming Man...

Enduring Legacy & Impact

The historical impact and works continue to influence the modern world.

Contemporary Figures & Related Historical Timelines

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Frequently Asked Questions about The Smiths