Johnny Marr, who is renowned as a member of the iconic band, The Smiths, has openly stated that he declined the chance for a band reunion – even though a staggeringly high sum was proposed as incentive.
In 1982, a guitarist from Manchester, aged 61, established the band and, together with vocalist Morrissey, bassist Andy Rourke, and drummer Mike Joyce, emerged as one of the most iconic musicians of that period.
Or more informally:
Back in 1982, a 61-year-old guitarist from Manchester started the band. Alongside Morrissey on vocals, Andy Rourke on bass, and Mike Joyce on drums, they became one of the defining musicians of their time.
After creating the group during his teenage years, Marr departed from it in July 1987 when he was 24, feeling disgruntled about the management of the band. Consequently, his departure marked the dissolution of the group by the end of that year.
On the latest episode of the Stick to Football podcast, Marr discussed his past with the band, effectively ending any speculation about a possible reunion. While he acknowledged that there had been enticing proposals, it seems that such an event won’t be happening.
He stated that his choice to part ways with the band was a feeling-laden one, yet not a hasty or spontaneous decision. He expressed a sense of pride in both the band itself and the music they created during their tenure together.
“I looked at it for quite a long time and I was really heartbroken about it.”
On a reunion, he added: “We got made an offer recently, but I said no.
“It was a little bit about principles, but I’m not an idiot, I just think the vibe’s not right.
The sum of money was staggering, yet I’m genuinely enjoying my current work, making it much more manageable.
1. “I’m content with my current state, but there’s a desire within me to compose the greatest song I’ve ever made. I aspire to improve as a performer.”
2. “Things are good here for me, but I’m yearning to create my best piece of music yet. I’m working on becoming a more skilled performer.”
3. “I’m satisfied with where I am now, but I’ve got this driving ambition to write the ultimate song. My goal is to hone my performing skills.”
4. “I find myself in a comfortable spot right now, but deep down, I’m eager to pen the perfect song. Striving for improvement as a performer is my aim.”
5. “I’m happy where I am, but there’s a burning desire in me to write an exceptional song. I want to elevate my performance abilities.”
After parting ways with the original group, Marr has established a thriving solo venture, and furthermore, he’s been associated with various bands such as The Cribs, Modest Mouse, The The, and The Pretenders.
In almost a year, Marr’s remarks followed Morrissey’s statement on his blog Morrissey Central dated August 2024, where he mentioned receiving an attractive proposal for a reunion which Marr reportedly chose to disregard.
Since their days together in the band, Morrissey and Marr have openly disagreed, particularly in 2016 due to their contrasting views on Brexit and opinions about Nigel Farage.
Morrissey and Marr have had a public argument since they were in the band, with one of the biggest disputes happening in 2016 because of differences in their political beliefs regarding Brexit and their feelings towards Nigel Farage.
Later on, they continued to dispute when Morrissey asserted that Marr had obtained the rights to the band’s name, The Smiths.
In the future, Marr openly declared: “To make certain that no outsiders capitalize on the band’s name, it fell upon me to preserve its legacy. I’ve taken care of this duty not just for myself, but also for my ex-bandmates.
Last December, Morrissey expressed strong interest in a reunion tour and showed no particular affection for Marr. During an interview with Fiona Dodwell (published on Medium), he said, “I agreed to it as it seemed like the final opportunity for something like this.
As time goes by, we all age. I believe organizing a tour could serve as an excellent gesture of gratitude towards those who have patiently listened to us for what seems like forever.
“It wasn’t because I had any emotional attachment to Marr. I have absolutely none.”
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2025-06-19 19:06