The Smiths' Feud Heats Up: Johnny Marr Rejects Morrissey's Claims About Trademark and Tour Offer

Johnny Marr, the guitarist for the iconic 80s band The Smiths, has refuted claims made by Morrissey, the group's former frontman, regarding the ownership of The Smiths trademark and a recent offer for a reunion tour.

In a statement issued through his management team, Marr explained the circumstances surrounding the Smiths trademark, stating that he had reached out to Morrissey in 2018, via his representatives, when a third party attempted to use The Smiths' name.

He said: "In 2018, following an attempt by a third party to use The Smiths’ name – and upon discovery that the trademark was not owned by the band – Marr reached out to Morrissey, via his representatives, to work together in protecting The Smiths’ name."

According to Marr, Morrissey's lack of response led him to register the trademark himself. However, Marr states that it was subsequently agreed upon with Morrissey's legal team that the trademark would be held for the mutual benefit of both musicians.

"It was subsequently agreed with Morrissey’s lawyers that this trademark was held for the mutual benefit of Morrissey & Marr. As a gesture of goodwill, in January 2024, Marr signed an assignment of joint ownership to Morrissey. Execution of this document still requires Morrissey to sign."

The Smiths' Reunion Tour Offer: 'I Didn't Ignore The Offer - I Said No'

Addressing the contentious claims made by Morrissey about a potential Smiths reunion tour, Marr was direct in his response, stating: "I didn’t ignore the offer – I said no."

This refutes Morrissey's earlier claim that Marr had ignored a lucrative offer for a Smiths reunion tour in 2025, an offer that Morrissey had indicated he was willing to accept. Marr’s statement clarifies his stance on the matter, emphasizing that he was not interested in pursuing a reunion.

Beyond the Tour: Other Disagreements

The statement from Marr's management addresses further disagreements, specifically concerning a proposed greatest hits album by The Smiths. Morrissey had previously alleged that Marr had blocked the release of this album, a claim that Marr addressed directly.

He explained that he declined a suggestion for a greatest hits compilation from Warner Music Group, citing the existence of numerous such albums already available.

"Johnny Marr also confirms that he declined a suggestion for another greatest hits compilation from Warner Music Group given the number already in existence."

A History of Conflict

The Smiths' turbulent history is well documented, with the band dissolving in 1987, and tensions between Marr and Morrissey simmering ever since.

In 2022, Marr stated that he had no desire to work with Morrissey again, confirming that their relationship had remained strained.

Despite Morrissey’s claims about Marr blocking a greatest hits album, the reality is that the two musicians, who once shared a powerful creative partnership, have long since moved in different directions.

It seems, for now at least, that the prospect of a Smiths reunion remains unlikely, with both parties focusing on their respective solo careers. However, given the history of conflict and the recent public disagreements, it is impossible to rule out the possibility of future disputes.

The Future of The Smiths: A Legacy in Limbo

Despite the recent squabble, the music of The Smiths continues to resonate with fans across generations. Their iconic sound and lyrics have cemented their place in music history, leaving a lasting mark on the cultural landscape. However, the legacy of the band remains complex, marked by the ongoing tension between its two most prominent figures. Whether or not a reconciliation is possible remains to be seen, but it is clear that the story of The Smiths is far from over.