Johnny Marr, born John Martin Maher on October 31, 1963, in Manchester, England, knew from a young age that music was his path. Growing up in a working-class family who had emigrated from County Kildare, Ireland, Marr's early years in Ardwick Green and later Wythenshawe were steeped in pop culture and a burgeoning passion for the guitar.
Forming his first band at the age of thirteen, the Paris Valentinos, with future Smiths bassist Andy Rourke, Marr spent his teenage years honing his distinctive guitar style, often learning by ear from LP records. Even in these early bands, his talent was evident.
The pivotal moment in Marr's story came in the summer of 1982 when, at just eighteen, he sought out a singer named Steven Patrick Morrissey. This meeting led to the formation of The Smiths, a band that would define a generation of indie and alternative music. Marr's jangle-pop guitar work became the band's signature sound, perfectly complementing Morrissey's unique vocals and lyrics.
The Smiths achieved both commercial success and critical acclaim during their five-year run. Marr's innovative and distinctive guitar playing made him one of the most revered guitarists of the 1980s. However, personal differences between Marr and Morrissey led to the band's split in 1987.
Following The Smiths, Marr embarked on a diverse and prolific career, becoming a sought-after collaborator and session musician. He was a member of The Pretenders, The The, Electronic (with Bernard Sumner of New Order), Modest Mouse, and The Cribs, showcasing his versatility across different genres. He also worked with a wide array of artists, including Billy Bragg, Kirsty MacColl, Talking Heads, Bryan Ferry, Pet Shop Boys, and even film composer Hans Zimmer.
In 2013, Marr launched his solo career with the album The Messenger. He has since released several critically acclaimed solo albums, including Playland (2014) and Call the Comet (2018), demonstrating his continued evolution as a songwriter and performer.
Throughout his career, Johnny Marr has remained a restless creative force, constantly pushing musical boundaries and collaborating with a diverse range of artists. His autobiography, Set the Boy Free, published in 2016, offers a personal account of his life and musical journey. In recognition of his significant contributions to music, NME honored Marr with its "Godlike Genius" award in 2013. His influence on popular music over the last four decades is undeniable, solidifying his status as a true icon.