History of The Smiths: A Comprehensive Overview

The Smiths are one of the most influential bands in the post-punk and indie scenes, having made an impact that continues to resonate today. The band, formed in 1982 by singer Morrissey, guitarist Johnny Marr, bassist Andy Rourke, and drummer Mike Joyce, created a unique sound that combined Morrissey's poetic lyrics with Marr's jangly guitar riffs and melodic basslines. Their music was both political and personal, addressing topics ranging from the nuclear arms race to heartbreak. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the history of The Smiths, from their formation to their eventual breakup in 1987. The Smiths formed in 1982 in Manchester, England.

The band was comprised of vocalist Morrissey, guitarist Johnny Marr, bassist Andy Rourke, and drummer Mike Joyce. Despite their brief tenure together, The Smiths were incredibly prolific, releasing four studio albums and numerous singles. Their debut album, The Smiths, was released in 1984 and was an immediate success in both the UK and US. It included the singles “This Charming Man” and “What Difference Does It Make?” The band's second album, Meat Is Murder, was released in 1985 and reached number one on the UK Albums Chart.

It featured the singles “That Joke Isn't Funny Anymore” and “How Soon Is Now?” which became one of the group's most iconic songs. The Smiths' third album, The Queen Is Dead, was released in 1986 and included the singles “Bigmouth Strikes Again” and “There Is a Light That Never Goes Out”. The album reached number two on the UK Albums Chart. The band's final album, Strangeways, Here We Come, was released in 1987 and reached number two on the UK Albums Chart.

It included the singles “Girlfriend In a Coma” and “Stop Me If You Think You've Heard This One Before”. The Smiths disbanded in 1987 due to creative differences between Morrissey and Marr. Since then, each member has gone on to pursue solo projects or work with other bands. Despite their short career together, The Smiths have had a lasting impact on music.

They are considered to be one of the most influential bands to emerge from the Madchester scene in the 1980s. Their unique blend of jangle pop and post-punk has been cited as an influence by many other artists over the years. The Smiths' music is often characterized by Morrissey's witty and introspective lyrics, Marr's dynamic guitar playing, Rourke's melodic basslines, and Joyce's powerful drumming. The band was also notable for their refusal to compromise their sound to fit in with mainstream trends. The Smiths' legacy lives on through their music, which continues to inspire many musicians today. Their influence can be heard in the music of bands such as The Cure, Radiohead, Interpol, The National, and more.

Legacy

The Smiths are widely regarded as one of the most influential bands of the 1980s.

They were at the forefront of the Madchester scene, and their unique blend of jangle pop and post-punk has resonated with listeners over the years. After the band's dissolution in 1987, The Smiths' impact on music has only grown. Their songs have been covered by countless artists, and their influence is evident in genres ranging from alternative rock to indie pop. The Smiths' legacy is also seen in their influence on fashion.

The band's iconic look, which included colorful shirts and oversized sweaters, has become a classic style that is still popular today. Moreover, their witty lyrics and politically charged themes continue to inspire new generations of musicians. The Smiths' influence can also be seen in the way they pioneered a new type of rock music. Their sound was distinct from other bands of the era, and their lyrics were often deeply personal and emotive.

They pushed the boundaries of what was possible in rock music, and their influence continues to be felt in modern music. Today, The Smiths' legacy lives on. Their music continues to be played on radio stations and streaming services around the world, and their albums remain some of the most beloved records of the 1980s. Furthermore, they have inspired countless other bands to follow in their footsteps, ensuring that their legacy will continue for many years to come.

Albums

The Smiths' AlbumsThe Smiths recorded four albums in their brief career.

The band's self-titled debut was released in February 1984 and was a critical and commercial success. The album featured the hit singles “This Charming Man” and “What Difference Does It Make?” and reached number two on the UK Album Chart. The follow-up album, Meat is Murder, was released in February 1985 and also reached number two on the UK Album Chart. The album featured the singles “That Joke Isn't Funny Anymore” and “How Soon is Now?”.The third album, The Queen Is Dead, was released in June 1986 and reached number two on the UK Album Chart.

The album featured the singles “Bigmouth Strikes Again” and “There Is A Light That Never Goes Out”, and is widely considered to be their best album. The fourth and final album, Strangeways, Here We Come, was released in September 1987 and reached number two on the UK Album Chart. The album featured the singles “Girlfriend in a Coma” and “Stop Me If You Think You've Heard This One Before”.The Smiths' albums have been widely praised for their songwriting, production, and lyrical content. All four albums are considered essential additions to any music collection.

Formation

The Smiths formed in 1982, when guitarist Johnny Marr and singer Morrissey met at a mutual friend's house.

Marr, who had previously worked with other bands such as The Nosebleeds and Slaughter & The Dogs, was looking for a new project that would combine his love of music and his passion for songwriting. Morrissey, an aspiring poet and writer, had recently been fired from his job at a record label, and was looking for an outlet for his creative ideas. Together, the two decided to form The Smiths. The two were soon joined by drummer Mike Joyce and bassist Andy Rourke. Joyce, who had previously played with the punk band The Hoax, brought a raw energy to the group, while Rourke's bass playing provided a melodic counterpoint to Marr's guitar lines.

With the four members in place, The Smiths began rehearsing and writing music. The Smiths' sound was a unique blend of post-punk and jangle pop, and their lyrics often tackled issues such as class politics, gender identity, and mental health. Their music quickly caught the attention of fans and critics alike. In 1983, the band released their debut single “Hand In Glove” and their first album “The Smiths” soon followed. The Smiths went on to release four more albums before splitting up in 1987. During their brief career, they left an indelible mark on the music scene, influencing countless artists over the years.

The Smiths had a short but incredibly influential career, revolutionizing music with their unique blend of jangle pop and post-punk. Their music has inspired countless artists over the years and continues to remain an important part of music history today. The band's albums, such as The Queen is Dead, Meat is Murder, and Strangeways Here We Come, are still widely regarded as some of the best of their time. The Smiths remain an iconic example of how one band can make an impact on the music industry.