Johnny Marr has publicly refuted recent allegations made by Morrissey concerning The Smiths’ trademark and a potential reunion tour. Marr’s management took to Instagram to address what they call “incorrect” statements issued by Morrissey on his personal website.
Dispute Over Trademark Ownership
The heart of the matter lies in the ownership of The Smiths’ trademark. Morrissey alleged that Marr had single-handedly obtained 100% ownership of the band’s name and intellectual property without consulting him or allowing for any objection. He further claimed this move prevents him from using the band’s name and impacts his financial livelihood.
However, Marr’s management presented a different version of events. Their statement clarifies that Marr only sought to register the trademark in 2018 after a third party attempted to exploit it. They also asserted that Marr had reached out to Morrissey for joint ownership but received no response.
Marr Signed Over Joint Ownership, Awaiting Morrissey’s Signature
Furthermore, Marr’s representatives revealed that he had already signed over joint ownership of the trademark to Morrissey in January 2024. The execution of the agreement now hinges on Morrissey’s signature, which is still pending.
No Reunion Tour Planned
Adding fuel to the fire, Morrissey had also claimed that Marr had been offered a reunion tour and had ignored it. Marr directly addressed this allegation in his statement, stating, “As for the offer to tour, I didn’t ignore the offer – I said no.”
Marr’s management also clarified that there are no plans for Marr to tour with another vocalist under The Smiths’ name. They emphasized that the decision to decline the greatest hits album offer was due to the numerous compilations already available.
A History of Discord
This very public disagreement further strains the already fractured relationship between Marr and Morrissey. The iconic British band, known for hits like “How Soon Is Now?” and “There Is a Light That Never Goes Out,” disbanded in 1987 after releasing four studio albums. Their split was fraught with animosity, and the recent dispute suggests that time hasn’t entirely healed old wounds.
Johnny Marr performing on stage
What’s Next for The Smiths’ Legacy?
The future of The Smiths’ legacy remains uncertain. The ongoing dispute over the trademark and the possibility of a reunion tour continue to be points of contention. Whether the two musicians can find common ground and protect the legacy of their groundbreaking music remains to be seen.
FAQs About The Smiths Controversy
What sparked the latest dispute between Morrissey and Marr?
Morrissey accused Marr of acquiring complete ownership of The Smiths’ trademark without his consent, hindering him from using the band’s name. He also claimed Marr ignored a reunion tour offer.
How did Marr respond to Morrissey’s allegations?
Marr refuted Morrissey’s claims, stating he secured the trademark to prevent third-party exploitation and had offered Morrissey joint ownership, which is awaiting his signature. He also confirmed declining the reunion tour offer.
What does this mean for The Smiths’ trademark?
Currently, Marr is the registered owner. However, he has reportedly signed over joint ownership to Morrissey, pending his signature. The execution of this agreement would grant both artists equal rights to the trademark.
Is a The Smiths reunion tour likely?
Marr has explicitly denied any plans for a reunion tour, making the possibility highly unlikely.
What is the current status of Morrissey and Marr’s relationship?
This public disagreement highlights the ongoing tension between the two musicians, indicating their relationship remains strained.
