Johnny Marr, renowned guitarist and co-founder of the influential band the Smiths, recently reflected on his career, Northern England, and the legacy of his music during an exhibition in London. The event, held at a prestigious venue, showcased around 80 of Marr’s guitars along with amplifiers and posters, most of which were auctioned to raise £3.6 million. Proceeds from selected sales benefited charities including Guide Dogs for the Blind Association and the National Autistic Society.
Among the high-profile items sold was Marr’s 1982 Rickenbacker 330 Jetglo, which fetched £358,400, and a Gibson ES-355 Cherry Red that sold for £204,800. Other pieces, including a set of harmonicas, attracted bids in the thousands. Marr shared anecdotes during the exhibition about his early days and influences, highlighting his deep connection to his working-class upbringing in Manchester. He acknowledged the bittersweet nature of revisiting his past through these instruments, many of which were central to the Smiths’ distinctive sound.
Marr also discussed his views on political figures associated with Northern England. Reflecting on former Prime Minister David Cameron’s use of the phrase "northern powerhouse," Marr criticized it as patronizing and dismissive. He was more measured in his assessment of Andy Burnham, the Greater Manchester mayor, who was recently filmed playing a few bars of the Smiths’ “Rusholme Ruffians” with soldiers in Ukraine. Marr complimented Burnham’s effort but joked that he needed a better plectrum and more relaxed posture.
On the topic of Northern empowerment, Marr expressed cautious optimism about attempts to devolve power to the North of England. Having lived in the northwest for over 60 years, he noted a persistent sense of political neglect in the region and welcomed initiatives that sought to create a more visible presence of authority and governance there. However, he emphasized that effectively running the country should remain the priority.
While the Smiths have long been heralded as defining a key moment in guitar-led indie music, Marr has pursued a diverse career beyond the band. He has collaborated with artists including Bernard Sumner’s Electronic, Pet Shop Boys, Blondie, Bryan Ferry, REM, Modest Mouse, Oasis, and composer Hans Zimmer. He also contributed to the James Bond theme “No Time to Die” with Billie Eilish. Despite nostalgia around the Smiths, Marr dismissed the idea of a reunion, describing his current focus as embracing and reflecting on a broader body of work that spans four decades.
His latest solo release, The Age of Everything, is Marr’s fifth album and features a more forceful sound with elements reminiscent of the Smiths’ style. Marr described it as an emphatic statement, emphasizing his desire to create music with energy and impact rather than mellow tunes that are often expected from older artists. He remains driven by a passion for musical experimentation, continually exploring new guitar chords and sounds—a process that keeps him connected to his origins and creative spirit.
Marr’s career journey from a young musician in Manchester to a globally recognized “guitar genius” remains grounded by his upbringing and ongoing curiosity. As The Age of Everything is set for release later this week, Marr appears poised to continue making his mark on the music landscape well beyond his early success with the Smiths.