Johnny Marr(I)
- Composer
- Actor
- Music Department
Johnny Marr made his name as lead guitarist with the cult British rock
band, The Smiths, regarded by some as one of
the most influential bands of the 1980s. Along with
Morrissey, Marr created some of the most
memorable and acclaimed songs of that decade, with
Morrissey's witty, satirical lyrics and
plaintive vocals perfectly complemented by Marr's distinctive jangly
guitar style. The band's catchy melodies and
Morrissey's eccentric and charismatic stage
presence ensured that The Smiths developed a
large and devoted following in the UK. To this day, they are
name-checked by most up-and-coming British guitar bands as an
influence. Personality clashes between Marr and
Morrissey meant an acrimonious end for
The Smiths in 1987. Morrissey forged a
successful career as a solo artist, while Marr became a much
sought-after session musician and "guitar for hire", working briefly
with artists such as The Pretenders and
Bryan Ferry, before more extensive and
notable work with Electronic and The The in the
early 90s. In the late 90s, he formed a new band, Johnny Marr's
Healers.