The Smiths were a British rock band that formed in Manchester in 1982, consisting of vocalist Morrissey, guitarist Johnny Marr, bassist Andy Rourke, and drummer Mike Joyce. They were known for their distinctive sound, blending Marr’s intricate guitar work with Morrissey’s lyrics, which often dealt with themes of alienation, loneliness, and social commentary.
The Smiths’ music has had a lasting impact on the alternative music scene and continues to inspire new generations of musicians. Their discography includes four studio albums, several compilations, and numerous singles and B-sides. Their music has been described as a blend of punk, indie rock, and post-punk, with influences ranging from 1960s pop to 1970s punk and beyond.
In this article, we will explore the best songs of The Smiths. We will delve into their discography and highlight the tracks that best capture their unique sound and lyrical themes. From early classics like “This Charming Man” and “Hand in Glove” to later hits like “How Soon Is Now?” and “The Boy with the Thorn in His Side,” we will take a comprehensive look at the band’s musical output and what makes each song stand out.
Whether you are a longtime fan of The Smiths or are discovering their music for the first time, this article will provide a deep dive into their catalog and help you appreciate the enduring legacy of this influential band.
1. The Smiths – “How Soon Is Now?”
“How Soon Is Now?” is a song by The Smiths, released as a B-side to their 1984 single “William, It Was Really Nothing.” It later appeared on the band’s compilation album “Hatful of Hollow” and became one of their most popular and enduring tracks.
The song is notable for its distinctive guitar riff, created by Johnny Marr using a combination of delay and reverb effects, which gives the track a haunting and otherworldly feel. The lyrics, written by Morrissey, capture the feeling of isolation and disconnection that many people experience, with lines like “I am the son and the heir of a shyness that is criminally vulgar” and “There’s a club if you’d like to go, you could meet somebody who really loves you.”
Despite its initial status as a B-side, “How Soon Is Now?” has become one of The Smiths’ most recognizable songs and has been covered by numerous artists over the years. Its dark, brooding atmosphere and introspective lyrics continue to resonate with listeners, making it a staple of alternative and indie music.
2. The Smiths – “Bigmouth Strikes Again”
“Bigmouth Strikes Again” is a song by The Smiths, released on their 1986 album “The Queen Is Dead.” It was also released as a single in the same year, and is one of the band’s most popular and well-known tracks.
The song is characterized by its energetic guitar riff, courtesy of Johnny Marr, and Morrissey’s biting lyrics, which satirize the media and its treatment of celebrities. Lines like “Sweetness, I was only joking when I said I’d like to smash every tooth in your head” and “Now I know how Joan of Arc felt as the flames rose to her Roman nose and her Walkman started to melt” showcase Morrissey’s wit and wordplay.
“Bigmouth Strikes Again” is a prime example of The Smiths’ unique sound, blending Marr’s jangly guitar with Morrissey’s distinctive voice and lyrics. The song’s catchy chorus and driving rhythm have made it a favorite of fans and a staple of alternative radio.
Overall, “Bigmouth Strikes Again” is a standout track in The Smiths’ catalog, showcasing the band’s ability to blend humor and social commentary with infectious melodies and driving rhythms.
3. The Smiths – “Ask”
“Ask” is a song by The Smiths, released as a single in 1986. The track was not included on any of the band’s studio albums but was later featured on their compilation album “Louder Than Bombs.”
The song features a catchy guitar riff from Johnny Marr, a driving beat, and Morrissey’s distinctive vocal delivery. The lyrics are a plea for communication and understanding in a relationship, with Morrissey singing lines like “Shyness is nice, and shyness can stop you from doing all the things in life you’d like to” and “If it’s not love then it’s the bomb, the bomb, the bomb, the bomb, the bomb, the bomb, the bomb that will bring us together.”
“Ask” showcases The Smiths’ ability to blend upbeat melodies with thoughtful lyrics, and is a standout track in their discography. Its catchy chorus and danceable rhythm have made it a fan favorite and a staple of alternative radio.
Overall, “Ask” is a testament to The Smiths’ ability to create songs that are both musically engaging and emotionally resonant, and has cemented its place as one of their most beloved tracks.
4. The Smiths – “This Charming Man”
“This Charming Man” is a song by The Smiths, released as their second single in 1983. The track features Johnny Marr’s distinctive guitar riff, a driving beat, and Morrissey’s unique vocal style.
The lyrics of “This Charming Man” capture the feeling of youthful romance and infatuation, with Morrissey singing lines like “Punctured bicycle on a hillside desolate, will nature make a man of me yet?” and “Why pamper life’s complexity when the leather runs smooth on the passenger seat?” The song’s upbeat tone and romantic themes struck a chord with audiences and helped to establish The Smiths as one of the most exciting new bands of the era.
“This Charming Man” is widely regarded as one of The Smiths’ most iconic and influential songs. Its catchy melody, Marr’s jangly guitar work, and Morrissey’s distinctive voice and lyrics have made it a fan favorite and a staple of alternative radio. The song’s music video, featuring Morrissey dancing with shirtless male models, has also become an iconic part of the band’s visual legacy.
Overall, “This Charming Man” is a classic example of The Smiths’ ability to create songs that are both musically engaging and emotionally resonant, and remains a beloved track in the band’s discography.
5. The Smiths – “Heaven Knows I’m Miserable Now”
“Heaven Knows I’m Miserable Now” is a song by The Smiths, released as a single in 1984. The track features a memorable guitar riff from Johnny Marr, a driving beat, and Morrissey’s melancholic vocals.
The lyrics of “Heaven Knows I’m Miserable Now” are a lament for a life that seems to be going nowhere, with Morrissey singing lines like “I was happy in the haze of a drunken hour, but heaven knows I’m miserable now” and “I was looking for a job and then I found a job, and heaven knows I’m miserable now.” The song’s themes of disappointment and disillusionment struck a chord with many listeners, and helped to solidify The Smiths’ reputation as one of the most emotionally resonant bands of the era.
“Heaven Knows I’m Miserable Now” remains a fan favorite and a staple of alternative radio, thanks in part to its catchy melody and memorable guitar work. The song’s music video, which features Morrissey dressed in a nurse’s uniform, has also become an iconic part of the band’s visual legacy.
Overall, “Heaven Knows I’m Miserable Now” is a classic example of The Smiths’ ability to create songs that are both musically engaging and emotionally powerful, and remains a beloved track in the band’s discography.
6. The Smiths – “There Is a Light That Never Goes Out”
“There Is a Light That Never Goes Out” is a song by The Smiths, released on their 1986 album “The Queen Is Dead.” The track features a haunting melody, Johnny Marr’s distinctive guitar work, and Morrissey’s emotive vocals.
The lyrics of “There Is a Light That Never Goes Out” are a contemplation of love and mortality, with Morrissey singing lines like “To die by your side is such a heavenly way to die” and “And if a double-decker bus crashes into us, to die by your side is such a heavenly way to die.” The song’s themes of love and death, as well as its poignant melody, have made it one of the band’s most beloved and iconic tracks.
“There Is a Light That Never Goes Out” is a testament to The Smiths’ ability to create songs that are both musically intricate and emotionally resonant. The song’s combination of Marr’s jangly guitar and Morrissey’s unique voice and lyrics create a haunting, unforgettable atmosphere that has touched generations of listeners.
Overall, “There Is a Light That Never Goes Out” remains one of The Smiths’ most enduring and beloved songs, a masterpiece of alternative rock that showcases the band’s unique sound and lyrical depth.
7. The Smiths – “Cemetery Gates”
“Cemetery Gates” is a song by The Smiths, released on their 1986 album “The Queen Is Dead.” The track features a lively, jangly guitar riff from Johnny Marr, a driving rhythm section, and Morrissey’s distinctive vocals.
The lyrics of “Cemetery Gates” are a playful and satirical take on the literary world, with Morrissey singing lines like “A dreaded sunny day, so let’s go where we’re happy and I’ll meet you at the cemetery gates” and “Keats and Yeats are on your side, but Wilde is on mine.” The song’s mix of humor, irony, and literary references have made it a fan favorite and one of The Smiths’ most beloved tracks.
“Cemetery Gates” also showcases The Smiths’ ability to create songs that are both musically engaging and lyrically complex. Marr’s guitar work is particularly noteworthy, with its intricate interplay between rhythm and melody creating a vibrant and dynamic sound.
Overall, “Cemetery Gates” is a classic example of The Smiths’ unique sound and lyrical style, a witty and melodic track that captures the band’s irreverent and literate spirit.
8. The Smiths – “The Headmaster Ritual”
“The Headmaster Ritual” is a song by The Smiths, released on their 1985 album “Meat Is Murder.” The track features a driving, propulsive rhythm section, Johnny Marr’s distinctive guitar work, and Morrissey’s passionate vocals.
The lyrics of “The Headmaster Ritual” are a biting critique of the British school system, with Morrissey singing lines like “Belligerent ghouls run Manchester schools” and “The cracking of flesh and bone.” The song’s themes of institutional oppression and authoritarianism struck a chord with many listeners, and helped to cement The Smiths’ reputation as a politically charged band.
Musically, “The Headmaster Ritual” is a tour-de-force, with its relentless beat and swirling guitars creating an intense and immersive listening experience. Marr’s guitar solo, in particular, is a standout moment, showcasing his virtuosic playing style and the band’s tight musical chemistry.
Overall, “The Headmaster Ritual” is a powerful and politically charged track that remains a fan favorite and a highlight of The Smiths’ discography. Its blend of hard-hitting lyrics and dynamic musicality make it a testament to the band’s unique sound and uncompromising vision.
9. The Smiths – “Hand In Glove”
“Hand In Glove” is the debut single by The Smiths, released in 1983. The track features Johnny Marr’s signature jangly guitar work, a propulsive rhythm section, and Morrissey’s emotive vocals.
The lyrics of “Hand In Glove” are a reflection on the power of human connection, with Morrissey singing lines like “The sun shines out of our behinds” and “We can go where we want to, ’cause they think we’re cool.” The song’s themes of freedom, rebellion, and the search for meaning struck a chord with many listeners, and helped to establish The Smiths as one of the most important bands of the 1980s.
Musically, “Hand In Glove” is a classic example of The Smiths’ distinctive sound, with Marr’s jangly guitar and Morrissey’s unique vocal style combining to create a vibrant and melodic track. The song’s driving rhythm section and catchy chorus also helped to make it an instant classic and a fan favorite.
Overall, “Hand In Glove” is a seminal track that represents the best of The Smiths’ early work. Its mix of memorable melodies, poetic lyrics, and musical innovation set the stage for the band’s subsequent success, and helped to establish them as one of the most important and influential bands of their time.
10. The Smiths – “The Queen Is Dead”
“The Queen Is Dead” is the title track of The Smiths’ third studio album, released in 1986. The song features Johnny Marr’s distinctive guitar work, Andy Rourke’s driving bassline, and Morrissey’s powerful vocals.
The lyrics of “The Queen Is Dead” are a scathing critique of British society, with Morrissey singing lines like “Life is very long when you’re lonely” and “So I broke into the palace with a sponge and a rusty spanner.” The song’s themes of social decay, political disillusionment, and personal isolation struck a chord with many listeners, and helped to establish The Smiths as one of the most important and influential bands of their time.
Musically, “The Queen Is Dead” is a tour-de-force, with its shifting time signatures, haunting guitar riffs, and dynamic vocal performance creating a sense of urgency and tension. The song’s memorable chorus and iconic intro have also made it a fan favorite and a staple of The Smiths’ live performances.
Overall, “The Queen Is Dead” is a classic track that captures the spirit of The Smiths at their most musically adventurous and politically charged. Its blend of poetic lyrics, innovative instrumentation, and emotional intensity make it a highlight of the band’s discography, and a testament to their enduring legacy.
11. The Smiths – “What Difference Does It Make?”
“What Difference Does It Make?” is a single by The Smiths, released in 1984. The track features Johnny Marr’s distinctive guitar work, a driving rhythm section, and Morrissey’s emotive vocals.
The lyrics of “What Difference Does It Make?” explore themes of existential angst and disillusionment, with Morrissey singing lines like “All men have secrets and here is mine” and “I’ll probably never see you again.” The song’s introspective lyrics and catchy chorus struck a chord with many listeners, and helped to establish The Smiths as one of the most important and influential bands of their time.
Musically, “What Difference Does It Make?” is a classic example of The Smiths’ distinctive sound, with Marr’s jangly guitar and Morrissey’s unique vocal style combining to create a memorable and melodic track. The song’s driving rhythm section and catchy chorus also helped to make it an instant classic and a fan favorite.
Overall, “What Difference Does It Make?” is a seminal track that represents the best of The Smiths’ early work. Its mix of memorable melodies, poetic lyrics, and musical innovation set the stage for the band’s subsequent success, and helped to establish them as one of the most important and influential bands of their time.
12. The Smiths – “This Night Has Opened My Eyes”
“What Difference Does It Make?” is a single by The Smiths, released in 1984. The track features Johnny Marr’s distinctive guitar work, a driving rhythm section, and Morrissey’s emotive vocals.
The lyrics of “What Difference Does It Make?” explore themes of existential angst and disillusionment, with Morrissey singing lines like “All men have secrets and here is mine” and “I’ll probably never see you again.” The song’s introspective lyrics and catchy chorus struck a chord with many listeners, and helped to establish The Smiths as one of the most important and influential bands of their time.
Musically, “What Difference Does It Make?” is a classic example of The Smiths’ distinctive sound, with Marr’s jangly guitar and Morrissey’s unique vocal style combining to create a memorable and melodic track. The song’s driving rhythm section and catchy chorus also helped to make it an instant classic and a fan favorite.
Overall, “What Difference Does It Make?” is a seminal track that represents the best of The Smiths’ early work. Its mix of memorable melodies, poetic lyrics, and musical innovation set the stage for the band’s subsequent success, and helped to establish them as one of the most important and influential bands of their time.
13. The Smiths – “William, It Was Really Nothing”
“William, It Was Really Nothing” is a song by The Smiths, released as a single in 1984. The track features Johnny Marr’s jangly guitar work, Andy Rourke’s driving bassline, and Morrissey’s distinctive vocal delivery.
The lyrics of “William, It Was Really Nothing” tell the story of a relationship that has gone sour, with Morrissey singing lines like “I would go out tonight, but I haven’t got a stitch to wear” and “I don’t dream about anyone except myself.” The song’s themes of loneliness and isolation struck a chord with many listeners, and helped to establish The Smiths as one of the most important and influential bands of their time.
Musically, “William, It Was Really Nothing” is a classic example of The Smiths’ signature sound, with Marr’s jangly guitar riff and Rourke’s driving bassline creating a catchy and memorable melody. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy chorus also helped to make it a fan favorite and a staple of The Smiths’ live shows.
Overall, “William, It Was Really Nothing” is a standout track in The Smiths’ discography, showcasing the band’s ability to create memorable and emotionally resonant music. Its mix of catchy melodies, introspective lyrics, and innovative instrumentation make it a classic of the post-punk era, and a testament to the band’s enduring influence on modern music.
14. The Smiths – “Panic”
“Panic” is a song by The Smiths, released in 1986 as a single. The track features Johnny Marr’s signature jangly guitar work, Andy Rourke’s driving bassline, and Morrissey’s distinctive vocal delivery.
The lyrics of “Panic” are a commentary on the state of the music industry and contemporary society, with Morrissey singing lines like “Hang the DJ, hang the DJ, hang the DJ” and “Burn down the disco, hang the blessed DJ.” The song’s themes of disillusionment and rebellion resonated with many listeners, and helped to establish The Smiths as one of the most important and influential bands of their time.
Musically, “Panic” is a classic example of The Smiths’ signature sound, with Marr’s jangly guitar riff and Rourke’s driving bassline creating a catchy and memorable melody. The song’s upbeat tempo and anthemic chorus also helped to make it a fan favorite and a staple of The Smiths’ live shows.
Overall, “Panic” is a standout track in The Smiths’ discography, showcasing the band’s ability to create catchy and socially conscious music. Its mix of infectious melodies, rebellious lyrics, and innovative instrumentation make it a classic of the post-punk era, and a testament to The Smiths’ enduring legacy as one of the most important bands of the 1980s.
15. The Smiths – “Half a Person”
“Half a Person” is a song by The Smiths, originally released as a B-side to the single “Shoplifters of the World Unite” in 1987. The track features Johnny Marr’s jangly guitar work, Andy Rourke’s bassline, and Morrissey’s emotional vocal delivery.
The lyrics of “Half a Person” are introspective and melancholic, with Morrissey singing about feelings of isolation and inadequacy. The song’s title refers to the idea that the narrator feels incomplete and unfulfilled, like they are only “half a person” without someone to love. The track’s raw emotion and vulnerability have made it a fan favorite over the years.
Musically, “Half a Person” is a slower, more subdued track than many of The Smiths’ other songs, with a dreamy, almost wistful quality to the melody. Marr’s guitar work is intricate and beautiful, perfectly complementing Morrissey’s vulnerable vocal performance. The song’s understated instrumentation and heartfelt lyrics have made it a beloved track in The Smiths’ discography.
Overall, “Half a Person” is a standout song in The Smiths’ discography, showcasing the band’s ability to create emotionally resonant music. Its mix of beautiful melodies, introspective lyrics, and innovative instrumentation make it a classic of the post-punk era, and a testament to the enduring influence of The Smiths on modern music.
16. The Smiths – “That Joke Isn’t Funny Anymore”
“That Joke Isn’t Funny Anymore” is a song by The Smiths, released as a single in 1985. The track features Johnny Marr’s signature guitar work, Andy Rourke’s melodic bassline, and Morrissey’s introspective vocal delivery.
The lyrics of “That Joke Isn’t Funny Anymore” are deeply personal and explore themes of loneliness and emotional pain. Morrissey sings about feeling disconnected from the world and struggling to find meaning in life, with lines like “When you laugh about people who feel so very lonely, their only desire is to die.” The song’s melancholic tone and introspective lyrics have made it a fan favorite and a standout track in The Smiths’ discography.
Musically, “That Joke Isn’t Funny Anymore” is a slow, moody track with a haunting melody. Marr’s guitar work is understated and atmospheric, perfectly complementing Morrissey’s emotional vocals. The song’s beautiful instrumentation and deeply personal lyrics have made it a classic of the post-punk era, and a testament to The Smiths’ ability to create emotionally resonant music.
Overall, “That Joke Isn’t Funny Anymore” is a standout track in The Smiths’ discography, showcasing the band’s ability to create beautiful and introspective music. Its mix of haunting melodies, deeply personal lyrics, and innovative instrumentation make it a classic of the post-punk era, and a testament to The Smiths’ enduring legacy as one of the most important and influential bands of the 1980s.
17. The Smiths – “Girlfriend In a Coma”
“Girlfriend in a Coma” is a song by The Smiths, released as a single in 1987. The track features Johnny Marr’s signature guitar work, Andy Rourke’s melodic bassline, and Morrissey’s distinctive vocal delivery.
The lyrics of “Girlfriend in a Coma” are darkly humorous, with Morrissey singing about a lover who is in a comatose state. Despite the subject matter, the song’s upbeat melody and catchy chorus have made it a fan favorite and a standout track in The Smiths’ discography.
Musically, “Girlfriend in a Coma” is an upbeat track with a catchy, sing-along chorus. Marr’s guitar work is bright and melodic, perfectly complementing Morrissey’s tongue-in-cheek vocal delivery. The song’s infectious melody and witty lyrics have made it a classic of the post-punk era, and a testament to The Smiths’ ability to create music that is both catchy and thought-provoking.
Overall, “Girlfriend in a Coma” is a standout track in The Smiths’ discography, showcasing the band’s ability to create music that is both darkly humorous and musically catchy. Its mix of upbeat melodies, tongue-in-cheek lyrics, and innovative instrumentation make it a classic of the post-punk era, and a testament to The Smiths’ enduring legacy as one of the most important and influential bands of the 1980s.
18. The Smiths – “You Just Haven’t Earned It Yet Baby”
“You Just Haven’t Earned It Yet, Baby” is a song by The Smiths, released as a B-side in 1987. The track features Johnny Marr’s jangly guitar work, Andy Rourke’s melodic bassline, and Morrissey’s distinctive vocals.
The lyrics of “You Just Haven’t Earned It Yet, Baby” are introspective and explore themes of disappointment and unfulfilled expectations. Morrissey sings about feeling let down by someone who has not lived up to his expectations, with lines like “And if you’re wondering why all the love that you long for eludes you, and people are rude and cruel to you, I’ll tell you why, I’ll tell you why.”
Musically, “You Just Haven’t Earned It Yet, Baby” is a jangly, upbeat track with a catchy melody. Marr’s guitar work is bright and jangly, perfectly complementing Morrissey’s introspective vocal delivery. The song’s infectious melody and introspective lyrics have made it a fan favorite and a standout track in The Smiths’ discography.
Overall, “You Just Haven’t Earned It Yet, Baby” is a standout B-side in The Smiths’ discography, showcasing the band’s ability to create music that is both catchy and introspective. Its mix of upbeat melodies, introspective lyrics, and innovative instrumentation make it a classic of the post-punk era, and a testament to The Smiths’ enduring legacy as one of the most important and influential bands of the 1980s.
19. The Smiths – “Please, Please, Please Let Me Get What I Want”
“Please, Please, Please Let Me Get What I Want” is a song by The Smiths, originally released as a B-side in 1984. The track features Johnny Marr’s delicate guitar work and Morrissey’s tender vocal delivery.
The lyrics of “Please, Please, Please Let Me Get What I Want” are heartfelt and explore themes of longing and disappointment. Morrissey sings about his desire to find happiness and fulfillment in life, with lines like “Haven’t had a dream in a long time, see, the life I’ve had can make a good man bad.” The song’s gentle melody and poignant lyrics have made it a fan favorite and a standout track in The Smiths’ discography.
Musically, “Please, Please, Please Let Me Get What I Want” is a delicate, acoustic track with a haunting melody. Marr’s guitar work is sparse but effective, perfectly complementing Morrissey’s tender vocal delivery. The song’s gentle instrumentation and heartfelt lyrics have made it one of The Smiths’ most beloved and enduring tracks.
Overall, “Please, Please, Please Let Me Get What I Want” is a standout B-side in The Smiths’ discography, showcasing the band’s ability to create music that is both delicate and deeply emotional. Its mix of gentle melodies, poignant lyrics, and innovative instrumentation make it a classic of the post-punk era, and a testament to The Smiths’ enduring legacy as one of the most important and influential bands of the 1980s.
20. The Smiths – “Handsome Devil”
“Handsome Devil” is a song by The Smiths, originally released on their self-titled debut album in 1984. The track features Johnny Marr’s intricate guitar work and Morrissey’s playful vocal delivery.
The lyrics of “Handsome Devil” are controversial and explore themes of sexuality and desire. Morrissey sings about his attraction to men, with lines like “There’s more to life than books, you know, but not much more,” and “I’m the handsome devil.” The song’s playful lyrics and catchy melody have made it a fan favorite and a standout track in The Smiths’ discography.
Musically, “Handsome Devil” is an upbeat, energetic track with a catchy guitar riff. Marr’s guitar work is intricate and complex, perfectly complementing Morrissey’s playful vocal delivery. The song’s infectious melody and controversial lyrics have made it one of The Smiths’ most memorable tracks.
Overall, “Handsome Devil” is a standout track on The Smiths’ debut album, showcasing the band’s ability to create music that is both catchy and controversial. Its mix of upbeat melodies, playful lyrics, and innovative instrumentation make it a classic of the post-punk era, and a testament to The Smiths’ enduring legacy as one of the most important and influential bands of the 1980s.
April Johnson 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.
