The Smiths have been an Indie Rock touchstone since forming in 1982 in Manchester, England, and have had a profound impact on alternative music and the culture surrounding it. Their jangly guitars, melancholic melodies, and introspective lyrics helped define the “sad boy” genre with Morrissey’s grim outlook on life. The Smiths frontman has a distinct vocal style– a baritone with a musical flair for the dramatic– and his poignantly witty lyrics that focused on themes of alienation, love, and social issues continue to have a lasting power that many other cultural icons can only hope to imagine. Morrissey’s persona, marked by a blend of vulnerability and sardonic humor, offered an alternative to the prevailing glam and excess of mainstream rock at the time. His lyrical narratives often drew from personal experiences, giving listeners a sense of connection and authenticity. And musically, guitarist Johnny Marr’s innovative guitar work laid the foundation for the band’s sound. Marr’s use of jangly riffs and diverse influences, from punk to 60s pop, are a defining part of what has made the band such a cultural touchstone ever since their inaugural release.
Standout Songs: “You’ve Got Everything Now”, “Pretty Girls Make Graves”, “This Charming Man”, “Still Ill”, “Suffer Little Children”
