Johnny Marr was born in 1960s Manchester to Irish emigrant parents and knew from an early age that he would be a musician. Forming his first band at thirteen, Marr spent his teenage years on the council estates of Wythenshawe playing guitar, devouring pop culture and inventing his own musical style. It wasn't until the early eighties, when Marr turned up on the doorstep of a singer named Steven Patrick Morrissey, that both a unique songwriting partnership and the group recognised as one of the most iconic bands of all time were formed. In 1983 The Smiths released their first single, and within a year their eponymous debut album reached number two in the UK chart, paving the way for mainstream and critical success on their own never stopped. Here, for the first time, he tells his own side of the story
Johnny Marr Bücher
Johnny Marr ist ein englischer Gitarrist, Keyboarder und Sänger, der in den 1980er Jahren als Gitarrist von The Smiths berühmt wurde. Seine einflussreiche Songwriting-Partnerschaft mit Morrissey prägte den Sound einer Ära. Marr gilt weithin als einer der fähigsten und einflussreichsten Rockgitarristen seiner Generation. Sein innovativer Stil und sein melodisches Gespür haben unzählige Musiker inspiriert und prägen bis heute die moderne Rockmusik.



Isle of Noises
Conversations With Great British Songwriters
More than twenty of the UK’s finest musicians discuss the magic and reveal the secrets behind their art in a rare collection of conversations about fifty years of classic British songwriting.
This stunning photographic presentation showcases the guitars that defined Johnny Marr's distinctive sounds and style, accompanied by personal insights from the legendary guitarist. Marr reflects, “Guitars have been the obsession of my life . . . they’ve been a mission and sometimes a lifeline.” As a pivotal figure in music, Marr's innovative arpeggios and chord progressions helped elevate The Smiths to iconic status among British bands. The collection traces his career from teenage years to his recent contributions to film soundtracks, highlighting significant electric and acoustic guitars that shaped his unique sound and playing style. Each instrument is linked to crucial moments, specific songs, or sounds, embodying Marr's lifelong passion. Renowned photographer Pat Graham captures each guitar in full portrait, complemented by detailed micro shots that reveal their uniqueness. Marr shares commentary on the tracks and shows associated with each guitar. Notable instruments include the Rickenbacker 330, Gibson ES-355, and Johnny Marr Signature Fender Jaguar, alongside guitars passed down from legends like Nile Rodgers and Bryan Ferry. The collection also features guitars once owned by Marr that have inspired the next generation, such as Noel Gallagher’s Stratocaster and Ed O’Brien’s Gibson Les Paul Goldtop. Contextual studio, backstage, and onstage shots enrich this cultural history of modern music and guitar playing through M