I Know It’s Over

The Smiths are one of Britain’s most well loved bands, bastions of the indie genre. A band who changed the face of British music for ever, in five short years. With it all coming to an end in 1987. 

Reunion talk happens often, just as it did with another band from Manchester, and following on from the news of an Oasis reunion. Fans were naturally going to question if Morrissey and Marr could bury the hatchet. 

Speculation was rife in the music press. But it was soon squashed by Morrissey in a statement.

Well actually two statements. The first talked about a potential release of a greatest hits album called ‘Smiths Rule Ok’ and the re release of the bands debut single ‘Hand in Glove’ which had been halted by Johnny Marr. 

The second statement. Read as follows 

‘J Marr has successfully applied for 100% trademark rights/ Intellectual Property ownership of The Smiths name. His application has been accepted on whatever oaths of proclamations he has put forward. This action was done without any consultation to Morrissey and without allowing Morrissey the standard opportunity of objection. Amongst many other things that means Marr can now tour as The Smiths using a vocalist of his choice and it also prohibits Morrissey from using the name whilst also denying Morrissey considerable financial livelihood. 

Morrissey alone created the name ‘The Smiths’ in May 1982’

Quite the statement. And quite the accusation. Along with this statement Morrissey claimed that Marr had refused an offer to reunite The Smiths in 2025. 

 Marr responded with this statement. 

Marr’s statement reads well. He admits to refusing the greatest hits album and states his reasoning. He also admits saying no to the tour. To be honest I’m not surprised he said no. Morrissey and Marr have very conflicting views now, and with the passing of Andy Rourke. The Smiths would not be the same. 

In terms of the business side, Marr has been in the music industry from being a teenager. He’s been around bands, from The Smiths, to Pretenders, Talking Heads, The Cribs. He understands the music industry, and the importance of protecting a legacy. 

I wonder if Morrissey will sign the documents Marr is referring to? 

Funny how Morrissey fails to mention the reunion attempt in 2008, led by Marr… 

The Smiths are over. Let’s enjoy the great songs they left behind.

Thanks for reading x