**The definitive book about The Smiths, one of the most beloved,
respected, and storied indie rock bands in music history.
**
They were, their fans believe, the best band in the world. Hailing from
Manchester, England, The Smiths--Morrissey, Johnny Marr, Andy Rourke,
and Mike Joyce--were critical and popular favorites throughout their
mid-1980s heyday and beyond. To this day, due to their unforgettable
songs and lyrics, they are considered one of the greatest British rock
groups of all time--up there with the Beatles, the Stones, the Who, and
the Clash.
Tony Fletcher paints a vivid portrait of the fascinating personalities
within the group: Morrissey, the witty, literate lead singer whose loner
personality and complex lyrics made him an icon for teenagers who felt
forlorn and forgotten; his songwriting partner Marr, the gregarious
guitarist who became a rock god for a generation of indie kids; and the
talented, good-looking rhythm section duo of bassist Rourke and drummer
Joyce. Despite the band's tragic breakup at the height of their success,
A Light That Never Goes Out is a celebration: the saga of four
working-class kids from a northern English city who come together
despite contrasting personalities, find a musical bond, inspire a
fanatical following, and leave a legacy that changed the music
world--and the lives of their fans.
