The Smiths

Definition

The Smiths were an influential British rock band formed in Manchester in 1982, known for their unique sound that combined jangly guitars, melodic bass lines, and introspective lyrics. Their music is often associated with the post-punk movement and has left a lasting impact on alternative and indie rock, influencing countless artists who followed.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Smiths released four studio albums between 1984 and 1987: 'The Smiths', 'Meat Is Murder', 'The Queen Is Dead', and 'Strangeways, Here We Come'.
2. They are often credited with helping to shape the sound of indie rock in the 1980s, paving the way for bands like Radiohead and The Cure.
3. Despite their short-lived career, The Smiths garnered a cult following and their songs continue to resonate with new generations of listeners.
4. Their single 'There Is a Light That Never Goes Out' is frequently cited as one of the greatest songs in alternative rock history.
5. The band's breakup in 1987 was primarily due to tensions between Morrissey and Marr, leading to their separation after a successful yet tumultuous partnership.

Review Questions

• How did The Smiths contribute to the development of alternative rock during the 1980s?
  • The Smiths played a crucial role in shaping the alternative rock scene in the 1980s by introducing a distinctive sound that combined jangly guitars with introspective and often melancholic lyrics. Their music diverged from mainstream rock conventions, focusing on themes such as alienation, love, and social critique. This approach resonated with a wide audience and influenced many bands that emerged in the subsequent years, establishing The Smiths as key figures in the genre's evolution.
• Discuss the significance of Morrissey’s lyrics in The Smiths’ music and how they reflect societal issues of their time.
  • Morrissey’s lyrics are significant because they often addressed complex societal issues such as class struggle, mental health, and personal identity. His poetic and sometimes controversial writing style provided a voice for those feeling marginalized or misunderstood in society. This connection with listeners made The Smiths not only a musical phenomenon but also a cultural touchstone that reflected the discontent and aspirations of youth during the 1980s in Britain.
• Evaluate the lasting impact of The Smiths on contemporary music genres, particularly within alternative and indie rock.
  • The lasting impact of The Smiths on contemporary music is evident through their influence on a multitude of artists across various genres, particularly within alternative and indie rock. Bands like Radiohead, Oasis, and The Cure have drawn inspiration from The Smiths' combination of emotional depth in lyrics and innovative musicality. Their distinctive sound laid the groundwork for future artists to explore themes of existentialism and personal reflection in their own work, ensuring that The Smiths' legacy continues to shape modern music.

Related terms

Morrissey: The lead singer and lyricist of The Smiths, known for his distinctive voice and often melancholic, poetic lyrics that addressed themes of loneliness, love, and social issues.

Johnny Marr: The guitarist and co-songwriter of The Smiths, recognized for his innovative guitar work and contribution to the band's signature sound, characterized by jangly melodies.

Alternative Rock: A genre of rock music that emerged in the 1980s, encompassing a wide range of styles and often characterized by a departure from mainstream rock conventions.