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Why The Smiths Will Likely Never Reunite
Why The Smiths Will Likely Never Reunite: The legendary British band The Smiths, known for their melancholic yet melodic sound, left a huge mark on alternative rock during the 1980s. Despite their relatively short-lived career, spanning from 1982 to 1987, their influence continues to resonate with fans and artists alike. However, the likelihood of a reunion remains virtually nonexistent. Here’s why.
The Infamous Rift Between Morrissey and Johnny Marr
One of the primary causes for The Smiths’ breakup was the strained relationship between frontman Morrissey and guitarist Johnny Marr. The creative pair, who produced some of the most memorable singles in British music history, had irreconcilable conflicts.
In multiple interviews, Johnny Marr has expressed his frustration with Morrissey’s behavior and controversial public statements, which further strained their relationship. Similarly, Morrissey has been vocal about his disdain for the music industry and has shown little interest in revisiting the past. The emotional and ideological chasm between the two makes reconciliation highly improbable.
Legal Battles and Financial Disputes (Why The Smiths Will Likely Never Reunite)
The court struggle that followed The Smiths’ dissolution exacerbated the enmity inside the band. Former bassist Andy Rourke and drummer Mike Joyce sued Morrissey and Marr in 1996, claiming a fair portion of the revenues. The court decided in Joyce’s favour. Moreover, they awarded him a bigger percentage of earnings. This legal fight fuelled the band members’ hatred even more and caused long-term bitterness that continues to this very day; damn!
Morrissey’s Solo Career and Controversial Persona (Why The Smiths Will Likely Never Reunite)
Since the bands break up, Morrissey has created a successful solo career of his own and he has carved out a space for himself based on his distinct sound and lyrical topics. However, his increasingly provocative political and social views have alienated many of his erstwhile fans and bandmates. Johnny Marr, in particular, has distanced himself from Morrissey’s viewpoint, claiming that their ideals are fundamentally opposed.
Morrissey’s steadfast individuality and reluctance to conform to industry norms historical made it clear that he has no interest in reuniting with his former bandmates for nostalgic or financial reasons; although he changed his tune in 2024, we will get onto that in a moment.
Johnny Marr’s Flourishing Career (Why The Smiths Will Likely Never Reunite)
Johnny Marr has also achieved success as a solo artist and collaborator with other renowned musicians, such as Modest Mouse and The Cribs. His creative freedom and ongoing success have decreased the desire to revisit The Smiths’ legacy. Marr has consistently emphasised that he prefers his own musical growth than rehashing the past.
The Smiths’ Legacy Remains Untouched (Why The Smiths Will Likely Never Reunite)
Another reason why a reunion is unlikely is the band’s long-standing legacy. The Smiths’ discography is ageless, and their impact on indie rock and alternative music is significant. Reuniting might ruin that history, as has often happened with bands that fail to replicate their original spark.
AEG Entertainment’s Offer and Morrissey’s Acceptance (Why The Smiths Will Likely Never Reunite)
In June 2024, AEG Entertainment Group made a lucrative offer to both Morrissey and Marr to tour worldwide as ‘The Smiths’ throughout 2025. While Morrissey accepted the offer, Johnny Marr chose to ignore it. This further underscores Marr’s disinterest in reuniting with his former bandmate.
Conclusion On Why The Smiths Will Likely Never Reunite
While fans of The Smiths may continue to hope for a reunion, the reality is that the personal, legal, and ideological differences among the members create an insurmountable barrier. Both Morrissey and Johnny Marr have found fulfillment in their respective solo careers, and The Smiths’ legacy stands as a testament to their brilliance. As much as the music world would rejoice at the thought of a reunion, the reasons behind their separation make it clear that The Smiths will likely never reunite.
He discovered the gem when he was 12 years old and still has it now, claiming it to be why he fell in love with music. He likes to play disc golf when he's not writing about music. He is a one-of-a-kind individual who is always the first to bust out his air guitar on the dance-floor.
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