The Smiths were an English rock band formed in Manchester in 1982. The group consisted of vocalist Morrissey, guitarist Johnny Marr, bassist Andy Rourke, and drummer Mike Joyce. Critics have called them one of the most important bands to emerge from the British independent music scene of the 1980s. In 2002, the NME named the Smiths "the artist to have had the most influence on the NME". In 2003, all four of their albums appeared on Rolling Stone's list of the "500 Greatest Albums of All Time". Johnny Marr left July 30, 1987, and the band broke up later that year due to internal tensions, and have since turned down several offers to reunite. Andy Rourke died from pancreatic cancer on May 19th, 2023.
Final lineup:
Morrissey – lead vocals, percussion (1982–1987)
Mike Joyce – drums (1982–1987)
Andy Rourke – bass (1982–1986, 1986-1987)
Ivor Perry – guitars (1987)
Former members
Johnny Marr – guitars, piano, keyboards, harmonica (1982–1987)
Steven Pomfret – guitars (1982)
Dale Hibbert – bass (1982)
James Maker – dancing, maracas, backing vocals (1982–1983)
Craig Gannon – bass (1986), guitars (1986)
Session and touring members:
Simon Wolstencroft – drums (1982)
Guy Pratt – bass (1986)
