The Smiths

The Smiths were an English rock band formed in Manchester in 1982, consisting of Morrissey (vocals), Johnny Marr (guitar), Andy Rourke (bass) and Mike Joyce (drums). Morrissey and Marr formed the band's principal songwriting partnership. The Smiths are regarded as one of the most important and influential British bands of the 1980s, and as pioneers of indie rock and independent music. The Smiths signed to the independent label Rough Trade Records in 1983 and released their debut studio album, The Smiths, in 1984, reaching number two on the UK Albums Chart.