Steven Patrick Morrissey, known simply as Morrissey, is a British singer, songwriter, and author. He rose to fame as the lead singer of The Smiths, one of the most influential bands of the 1980s. After the band’s breakup in 1987, Morrissey pursued a solo career and continued to release critically acclaimed albums well into the 21st century.
Morrissey’s music has been praised for its clever and often controversial lyrics, as well as his distinctive baritone voice. He often tackles subjects such as social injustice, politics, and animal rights in his songs. Morrissey has also been known for his unique fashion sense and outspoken personality, which has often led to controversy and criticism in the media.
Despite this, Morrissey has maintained a loyal fan base over the years and has been cited as an influence by numerous musicians. His music continues to resonate with listeners and has helped shape the alternative and indie music scenes. Morrissey’s influence can be seen in many contemporary artists, and his impact on music and culture is undeniable.
1. “Everyday Is Like Sunday”
“Everyday Is Like Sunday” is a melancholic yet catchy song by British singer-songwriter Morrissey, released in 1988. The song features Morrissey’s distinctive voice and lyrics that paint a vivid picture of loneliness and boredom in a seaside town. The haunting melody is driven by a steady drumbeat, and the use of accordion and keyboards create a nostalgic atmosphere that perfectly captures the feeling of melancholy. The chorus is memorable and easy to sing along to, and the song has become one of Morrissey’s most popular and enduring hits. “Everyday Is Like Sunday” is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with listeners around the world.
2. “The More You Ignore Me, The Closer I Get”
“The More You Ignore Me, The Closer I Get” is a song by Morrissey, the former lead singer of the British alternative rock band The Smiths. The song was released in 1994 as the lead single from Morrissey’s fourth solo album, “Vauxhall and I”. The lyrics, written by Morrissey, are a commentary on unrequited love, with the narrator declaring that the more his love interest ignores him, the closer he feels to her. The song features Morrissey’s distinctive vocals and is driven by a catchy guitar riff and a bouncy rhythm. “The More You Ignore Me, The Closer I Get” remains one of Morrissey’s most popular and enduring songs.
3. “Suedehead”
“Suedehead” is a single released by Morrissey in 1988, after leaving his previous band The Smiths. The song was a huge success, reaching number 5 on the UK Singles Chart, and helped establish Morrissey as a solo artist. The lyrics are typically Morrissey, with themes of loneliness and a yearning for connection. The music features jangly guitar riffs and a driving beat, with an infectious chorus that is hard to resist singing along to. The song has become one of Morrissey’s signature tunes, and remains a fan favorite to this day.
4. “There Is a Light That Never Goes Out”
“There Is a Light That Never Goes Out” is a beautiful and poignant song by British singer-songwriter Morrissey, released in 1986. The song features Morrissey’s powerful and emotive vocals and lyrics that speak to the desire for love and connection. The jangly guitars and driving rhythm give the song a sense of urgency, while the melody is hauntingly beautiful and filled with melancholy. The chorus is one of the most iconic in all of indie music, with the memorable line “If a double-decker bus crashes into us, to die by your side is such a heavenly way to die.” “There Is a Light That Never Goes Out” is a true classic that continues to touch the hearts of listeners around the world.
5. “I Know It’s Over”
“I Know It’s Over” is a melancholic ballad by Morrissey, released in 1986 as part of the iconic album “The Queen is Dead” by The Smiths. The song features Morrissey’s powerful and emotive vocals, accompanied by a simple yet beautiful arrangement of acoustic and electric guitars. The lyrics describe the pain and loneliness of a failed relationship, with Morrissey delivering lines like “It’s over, it’s over, it’s over” and “Oh mother, I can feel the soil falling over my head” in a raw and emotional manner. “I Know It’s Over” has become one of the most beloved and acclaimed songs in The Smiths’ catalogue.
6. “This Charming Man”
“This Charming Man” is a classic song by Morrissey, which was originally released as a single by his former band The Smiths in 1983. The song is characterized by its catchy guitar riff, upbeat tempo, and Morrissey’s distinctive vocals and poetic lyrics. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a young man who is approached by a handsome cyclist and who is torn between his desire for the cyclist’s companionship and his own reluctance to engage in a homosexual relationship. The song is widely regarded as a classic of the indie rock genre, and has been covered by numerous artists over the years.
7. “Heaven Knows I’m Miserable Now”
“Heaven Knows I’m Miserable Now” is a classic song by British singer-songwriter Morrissey, released in 1984 as a single by his band The Smiths. The song features Morrissey’s distinctive voice and lyrics that speak to the feeling of being stuck in a rut and unable to escape from one’s problems. The upbeat jangle-pop melody contrasts with the lyrics, creating a bittersweet sense of irony. The chorus, with its memorable “I was looking for a job, and then I found a job, and heaven knows I’m miserable now” refrain, has become one of the most iconic in all of indie music. “Heaven Knows I’m Miserable Now” is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with listeners around the world.
8. “How Soon Is Now?”
“How Soon Is Now?” is a song by The Smiths, co-written by Morrissey and guitarist Johnny Marr. The track was originally released as a B-side to their single “William, It Was Really Nothing” in 1984, but later became one of their most famous and influential songs. The distinctive guitar riff, accompanied by Marr’s use of a tremolo effect, creates an eerie and hypnotic atmosphere, while Morrissey’s lyrics express a feeling of loneliness and isolation. “How Soon Is Now?” has been covered by numerous artists and has been widely praised for its unique sound and poetic lyrics, solidifying its place as a classic in alternative rock.
9. “You Have Killed Me”
“You Have Killed Me” is a song by Morrissey, released as the lead single from his 2006 album “Ringleader of the Tormentors”. It features a mix of catchy guitar riffs and upbeat rhythms, coupled with Morrissey’s signature lyrics that touch on themes of loneliness, isolation and heartbreak. The song’s lyrics describe a protagonist who is feeling both victimized and empowered by a past relationship, reflecting Morrissey’s ability to write about complex emotions in a relatable way. The song was a commercial success, reaching number three on the UK Singles Chart and solidifying Morrissey’s place as one of the most influential figures in indie rock.
10. “First of the Gang to Die”
“First of the Gang to Die” is a single from Morrissey’s seventh solo studio album, “You Are the Quarry” released in 2004. The song was written by Morrissey and co-composer and guitarist Alain Whyte. The lyrics tell the story of a young man from Mexico named Hector, who is seen as a hero in his community, but is killed by a group of thugs. The upbeat, guitar-driven melody is paired with Morrissey’s distinctive vocals and witty, poetic lyrics that touch on themes of violence, heroism, and mortality. The song became a fan favorite and a live staple for Morrissey, showcasing his ability to write catchy and socially conscious tunes.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
