When Did The Smiths Start Making Music

When Did The Smiths Start Making Music? Unpacking the Genesis of a Legendary Band

The Smiths, a name synonymous with jangly guitars, Morrissey's melancholic baritone, and sharp, witty lyrics, remain one of the most influential and beloved bands in music history. Their relatively short lifespan, from 1982 to 1987, only amplified their impact, leaving behind a legacy that continues to resonate with generations of listeners. But when exactly did this iconic quartet begin their musical journey? The answer isn't as straightforward as one might think, and delving into their early history reveals a fascinating story of creative evolution and the crucial elements that coalesced to form one of the most important bands of the 80s.

The Pre-Smiths Era: Individual Journeys and Musical Foundations

To understand the genesis of The Smiths, we need to examine the individual paths of its members before they found each other. Each member brought a unique musical background and personality to the table, and these diverse influences would ultimately shape the band's distinctive sound.

Morrissey's Early Years: From Fan to Frontman

Steven Patrick Morrissey, the enigmatic frontman, had a long history of musical obsession before ever forming a band. A voracious consumer of music, Morrissey’s early tastes encompassed diverse genres, from glam rock acts like David Bowie and Roxy Music to the more introspective songwriting of artists such as Jacques Brel and Tim Buckley. This eclectic mix would profoundly influence his lyrical style, characterized by its literary depth, mordant humor, and unflinching self-reflection. His passion for music manifested itself through fanzine writing, where he honed his observational skills and critical voice. This period, marked by intense artistic passion and a deep engagement with music culture, laid the groundwork for his future as a prominent songwriter and lyricist.

Johnny Marr: The Architect of the Sound

Johnny Marr, the band's guitarist, had a different trajectory. While Morrissey was a devoted music fan, Marr was deeply involved in active music-making from a young age. He honed his skills playing in various bands in Manchester's vibrant and diverse music scene. His guitar playing wasn't merely proficient; it was innovative, forging a signature style that became an integral element of The Smiths’ sound. He explored various influences, including the jangle-pop of The Byrds and the angular riffs of Television, melding these inspirations into something uniquely his own. His meticulous approach to songwriting, focusing on melodic complexity and memorable riffs, was pivotal in shaping the band's identity.

The Rhythm Section: Completing the Puzzle

Andy Rourke and Mike Joyce, the bassist and drummer respectively, completed the lineup, bringing their own expertise and adding the rhythmic backbone to the band's songs. While perhaps less outwardly flamboyant than Morrissey or Marr, their contributions were vital to the band’s overall sound. Their musical backgrounds, combined with their intuitive understanding of the songs' structure, provided the solid foundation on which Marr's intricate guitar work and Morrissey's evocative lyrics could flourish.

The Formation of The Smiths: A Series of Fortuitous Encounters

The precise moment when The Smiths officially began isn't easily pinpointed, and various accounts slightly differ. However, it was in 1982 that the pieces definitively started falling into place. The crucial moment was the meeting of Morrissey and Marr, which was a pivotal event that catalyzed the band's creation. Their collaboration was a spark of creative genius, combining Morrissey's lyrical gift with Marr's unique guitar style. This collaboration, however, wasn't immediate. Several near misses and different band iterations had taken place previously.

The Pre-Smiths Collaborations: Laying the Groundwork

Prior to their definitive collaboration in 1982, Morrissey and Marr's paths almost crossed. Marr had seen Morrissey perform in different lineups, but had yet to connect with him musically. Morrissey's various short-lived bands and solo projects hadn’t quite hit the mark, lacking the crucial ingredient that Marr would bring to the equation. The convergence of Morrissey's lyrical talent and Marr’s musical proficiency proved to be crucial. They met through a mutual friend, and almost immediately, a creative synergy emerged. They began writing songs that possessed a unique blend of sharp observations, romantic melancholy, and infectious melodies. This musical collaboration finally created the foundation upon which the band’s identity and success would be built.

From Early Rehearsals to Signing with Rough Trade Records

After several rehearsals and song writing sessions, they started to assemble the full band lineup. The inclusion of Andy Rourke on bass and Mike Joyce on drums finalized the lineup of The Smiths. The band’s distinctive sound began to take shape. Their early rehearsals and performances, marked by their unique blend of jangly guitars and melancholic vocals, started attracting attention from the music scene. A strong response to their unique performances, they quickly gained a local following in Manchester. This culminated in their signing to Rough Trade Records, a pivotal moment signifying their transition from a local band to a nationally recognized act.

1983 and Beyond: The Smiths Emerge as a Defining Force

The year 1983 marked the real emergence of The Smiths as a force to be reckoned with. The release of their debut single, "Hand in Glove," showcased their unique sound and instantly captured the attention of music critics and fans alike. Their debut album, "The Smiths," followed soon after, solidifying their status as a major player in the burgeoning indie rock scene.

The Evolution of their Sound and Influence

The Smiths weren't just a band; they were a cultural phenomenon. Their music resonated with a generation grappling with societal changes, economic uncertainty, and a sense of alienation. Their introspective lyrics, coupled with Marr’s instantly recognizable guitar work, created a sound that was both melancholic and uplifting, poignant and witty. The band's influence extended far beyond their discography. Their style, from Morrissey’s iconic fashion sense to Marr’s distinctive guitar riffs, inspired countless artists.

From their inception in 1982 to their dissolution in 1987, The Smiths' impact on music continues to be felt, influencing numerous artists across various genres. Their unique blend of musical styles, combined with Morrissey's sharply observant and emotionally resonant lyrics, established a template that continues to inspire musicians today. The band’s legacy is not simply a collection of songs, but a cultural phenomenon that has shaped the music and aesthetics of countless musicians and artists who followed in their wake. The Smiths' contribution to music isn't just about their music; it's about their cultural impact, their stylistic innovations, and their ability to express the anxieties and aspirations of a generation in a way that remains both powerful and profoundly moving. Therefore, while the precise moment of their "start" may remain slightly nuanced, the undeniable truth is that 1982 marks the year where the magic of The Smiths truly began.