Johnny Marr

Johnny Marr
Marr in 2024
Background information
Birth name	John Martin Maher
Born	(1963-10-31) 31 October 1963 Manchester, England
Genres	Alternative rock * indie pop * indie rock * jangle pop * post-punk
Occupation(s)	Musician * songwriter * singer
Instrument(s)	Guitar * vocals * piano * harmonica
Years active	1982–present
Formerly of	The Smiths * Electronic * Modest Mouse * The Pretenders * The Cribs * The The
Website	johnny-marr.com

Biography

Johnny Marr is a British musician, songwriter, and guitarist, best known as the co-founder and guitarist of the legendary alternative rock band The Smiths. Born John Martin Maher on October 31, 1963, in Manchester, England, Marr emerged from the vibrant post-punk scene of the 1980s, bringing a distinctive jangly guitar sound that became a defining feature of The Smiths’ music.

Marr’s passion for music began early, influenced by artists such as The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and punk bands like The Clash. He formed The Smiths in 1982 with lead singer Morrissey, creating a partnership that would leave a lasting mark on British indie music. The band released a string of critically acclaimed albums, including The Smiths (1984), Meat Is Murder (1985), and The Queen Is Dead (1986), blending Marr’s melodic guitar riffs with Morrissey’s poetic lyrics. Hits like “This Charming Man” and “How Soon Is Now?” showcased Marr’s innovative playing style, earning him recognition as one of the greatest guitarists of his generation.

After The Smiths disbanded in 1987, Marr embarked on a diverse solo career and collaborated with numerous artists, including Electronic (with Bernard Sumner), Modest Mouse, The The, and more recently, The Cribs. His solo albums, such as The Messenger (2013) and Call the Comet (2018), highlight his versatility and evolution as a songwriter and performer.

Beyond his musical talents, Marr is known for his humble, thoughtful personality and dedication to his craft. He has influenced countless musicians and continues to tour and record new music, maintaining relevance in the modern music scene.

Johnny Marr’s legacy lies in his unique guitar work, his role in shaping indie rock, and his enduring contributions to music over four decades, making him a pivotal figure in British music history.

Music (likes)

Two Paddock's Top Ten Tunes (2020)

• Metal Guru - T.Rex
• Se Telefonando - Mina
• Right Thoughts (Right Words Right Action) - Franz Ferdinand
• Bloodlines - Mimicking Birds
• Needles In The Camel's Eye - Brian Eno
• Foggy Notion - Velvet Underground
• Lost In Music - Sister Sledge
• Vamos A Matar Comañeros - Ennio Morricone
• Shot by Both Sides - Magazine
• Keep On Keepin On - NF Porter