The Smiths

Hailing from Manchester and formed in 1982, The Smiths exploded onto the British music scene as a cornerstone of the 80s indie rock revolution. The iconic lineup featured Morrissey`s instantly recognizable vocals, the jangly guitar work of Johnny Marr, Andy Rourke on bass, and Mike Joyce on drums. The songwriting partnership of Morrissey and Marr proved undeniably potent.

Signed to Rough Trade Records in 1983, their self-titled debut album dropped in 1984. Rejecting the prevailing synth-pop soundscape, The Smiths carved a niche with their raw, guitar-driven sound, blending 60s rock sensibilities with post-punk edge. Their impact was undeniable: multiple singles cracked the UK top 20, and all their studio albums hit the UK top 5, including the number one album Meat Is Murder (1985). International success followed with The Queen Is Dead (1986) and Strangeways, Here We Come (1987), both charting in the European top 20. The band briefly expanded to a five-piece in 1986 with the addition of guitarist Craig Gannon.

However, internal conflicts ultimately led to the band`s acrimonious split in 1987, further complicated by public disputes over royalties. The members have steadfastly maintained their refusal to reunite, rejecting all offers to do so, cementing their legacy as one of the most influential and enduring bands of their era, and a definitive voice of 80s British independent music.