There Is A Light That Never Goes Out

THE SMITHS Released Their Masterly Album ‘THE QUEEN IS DEAD’ Today 40 Years Ago

Posted on by JL

Significant longplayers from yesteryear

16 June 2026

Manchester’s icons THE SMITHS (1982–1987 / 4 albums) released their masterly
THE QUEEN IS DEAD, their 3rd LP, on 16 June 1986, today 40 years ago today.

The longplayer’s title is taken from American writer Hubert Selby Jr.‘s
1964 novel, The Last Exit To Brooklyn. The LP’s cover features a still of
French actor Alain Delon from the 1964 film L’Insoumies (The Unvanquished).

Delon granted permission for the image’s use, though, according
to Morrissey’s Autobiography, the actor said his parents were
dismayed by the title.

Pitchfork‘s verdict: “A masterpiece marking the Smiths’ imperial phase with Morrissey’s grandly moving lyrics and delivery, alongside Johnny Marr’s sparkling melodies and intricate arrangementsfor. For true believers, the album cemented the Smiths’ status as the greatest group in the world despite their struggle to gain widespread commercial success at the time, and positioned Morrissey as a spurned savior of British music.”

Singles.

– THE BOY WITH THE TORN IN HIS SIDE –

– BIGMOUTH STRIKES AGAIN –

– THERE IS A LIGHT THAT NEVER GOES OUT –

ALBUM


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All Albums

JOHNNY MARR Plays SMITHS Classic For Foo Fighter TAYLOR HAWKINS

Posted on by JL

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Last Sunday Johnny Marr played in Cardiff, Wales. To pay tribute to Taylor Hawkins,
the Foo Fighters’ drummer who passed away March 25 at the age of 50, he played
a classic he wrote with Morrissey for his former band The Smiths.

Before going into There Is A Light That Never Goes Out Marr said: “This is a song
that we’d like to dedicate to our friend Dave Grohl. Lots of love going out to you guys and
all the Foos family. We miss you Taylor, we won’t ever forget you. God bless you. This is
from all of us.”

JOHNNY MARR: Facebook