Morrissey’s influence and music legacy is irrefutable. Widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in British pop as well as one of the greatest lyricists of his generation, Morrissey has achieved 25 top ten album placings in the UK: 15 solo, and 10 with the Smiths. His 1992 concert at the Hollywood Bowl broke The Beatles record as the fastest-ever sell out at the Bowl. He has received an Ivor Novello Award for Outstanding Contribution to British music. Morrissey has recently received a 2024 Social Vanguard Award in recognition for his ‘outstanding service and dedication to Animals Rights’. In 2013, his Autobiography became the second fastest selling autobiography of all time, spending six weeks at number 1 in England. His solo songs have been covered by David Bowie, Nancy Sinatra, The Killers, Thema Houston, Chrissie Hynde, The Pretenders, My Chemical Romance, Christy Moore, and many others. In 2004 viewers of BBC Television voted Morrissey the second Greatest Living Englishman, with David Attenborough 1st, and Paul McCartney 3rd.
As lead singer and founder member of The Smiths, he marked forever the history of music with only four albums. As a soloist, he has consolidated a sound that still reverberates today making him one of the most acclaimed voices of the last four decades. When the debut single from The Smiths, “Hand In Glove,” first emerged, the musical landscape was forever changed and launched a rich catalog of songs that include anthems such as “This Charming Man,” “How Soon Is Now?,” and “There Is A Light That Never Goes Out. ” When Morrissey embarked on his solo career, his streak of iconic and influential songs continued with “Suedehead,” “Everyday Is Like Sunday,” “Irish Blood, English Heart,” “First of the Gang to Die,” and many many more.
