Johnny Marr, the iconic lead guitarist of the cult British rockband, The Smiths, widely regarded as one of the most influential bands of the 1980s. Alongside Morrissey, Marr crafted some of the most iconic and celebrated songs of that decade, with Morrissey's witty, satirical lyrics and plaintive vocals perfectly complemented by Marr's distinctive, jangly guitar style.
The band's infectious melodies and Morrissey's eccentric, charismatic stage presence captivated a large and devoted following in the UK. To this day, they remain name-checked by most up-and-coming British guitar bands as an influence.
However, personality clashes between Marr and Morrissey ultimately led to an acrimonious end for The Smiths in 1987. Morrissey went on to forge a successful solo career, while Marr became a highly sought-after session musician and "guitar for hire," working briefly with artists such as The Pretenders and Bryan Ferry.
In the early 1990s, Marr collaborated extensively with Electronic and The The, before forming a new band, Johnny Marr's Healers, in the late 1990s.
