The Smiths were a highly influential English rock band that originated in Manchester in 1982. The band was comprised of four members, including the vocalist Morrissey, the guitarist Johnny Marr, the bassist Andy Rourke and the drummer Mike Joyce. The creative partnership between Morrissey and Marr was a driving force behind the band's unique sound and songwriting.
The Smiths gained widespread recognition after signing with the independent label, Rough Trade Records, in 1983 and releasing their debut album, The Smiths, in 1984. The band's signature sound was characterized by a focus on guitar, bass and drums, which blended elements of 1960s rock with post-punk influences. This marked a sharp departure from the synth-pop sound that dominated the British music scene at the time. The band's rebellious and often politically-charged lyrics also contributed to their unique identity and popularity.
The Smiths achieved significant commercial success with a number of chart-topping singles, including "Heaven Knows I'm Miserable Now" and "Panic". All of their studio albums, including Meat Is Murder (1985), which reached number one on the UK Albums Chart, achieved top-five status on the chart. The band's popularity extended beyond the UK, with The Queen Is Dead (1986) and Strangeways, Here We Come (1987) both entering the top 20 of the European Albums Chart.
Despite their commercial success, internal tensions and creative differences ultimately led to the band's breakup in 1987. In the years following the dissolution of the band, there were public lawsuits over royalties, which further fueled speculation about the possibility of a reunion. However, all members have consistently stated that a reunion is highly unlikely, and have turned down all offers to do so.
The legacy of The Smiths continues to influence contemporary music and culture, with their impact being felt across a wide range of genres and artistic mediums. Their unique sound, combined with Morrissey's distinctive vocal style and Marr's innovative guitar work, has earned the band a lasting place in the history of British music.
