Johnny Marr, born John Martin Maher on 31 October 1963, is an iconic English musician, songwriter, and singer. He rose to fame in the 1980s as the guitarist and co-songwriter of The Smiths, a band that became a defining entity in the British indie music scene. Over the group's brief but impactful career, Marr's jangly guitar work and innovative use of the instrument became highly influential, helping to shape the sound of alternative music for years to come. After The Smiths disbanded in 1987, Marr did not slow down; instead, he embarked on a versatile career, collaborating with a myriad of artists across various genres, including Talking Heads, Electronic, Modest Mouse, and The Cribs.

In recent years, Johnny Marr has continued to leave his mark on the music industry with his solo work, characterized by his signature guitar style and introspective lyricism. Releases like "Somewhere," "Spirit Power and Soul," and the ambitiously conceived "Fever Dreams Pts 1 - 4," showcase his evolution as an artist who remains committed to exploring new musical territories while staying true to his roots. His work demonstrates a mastery of melding catchy melodies with complex emotional and sociopolitical themes. Marr's influence on modern music is undeniable, marking him as a seminal figure whose contributions continue to inspire both contemporaries and emerging artists alike.

Genres

Britpop

Solo Wave

Related Artists

The Cure

New Order

Morrissey

Paul Weller

Radiohead

The Killers

The Strokes

U2

Oasis

The Clash

Blur

The National

Latest Release

The Way That It Was

Johnny Marr

Single - Released September 4, 2024