Morrissey Announces Sale of Smiths Catalog Rights
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Former Smiths frontman Morrissey is seeking to sell his rights to the band’s catalog, a move that follows a protracted dispute with guitarist Johnny Marr over trademark ownership and creative control. the announcement, made on his website on September 4, 2024, signals a potential shift in the future of The Smiths’ iconic music and intellectual property.
This decision arrives amid ongoing tensions between Morrissey and Marr, stemming from disagreements over the band’s legacy and Marr’s self-reliant acquisition of trademark rights. The sale could considerably impact how The Smiths’ music is licensed, used in media, and potentially re-released, affecting both fans and the band’s artistic estate. The future ownership remains uncertain, but the move underscores a definitive break between the two former collaborators.
Trademark Dispute and Creative control
Last year, Morrissey asserted that Marr obtained the trademark rights to the Smiths’ name without any consultation to Morrissey, and without allowing Morrissey the standard chance of ’objection.’
” Pitchfork reported that Marr’s management stated that in 2018, Marr attempted to collaborate with Morrissey on protecting the band’s name, but received no response, leading him to register the trademark himself.
Morrissey further expressed his frustration, claiming a deliberate effort to diminish his role in the band’s creation.There is also an obvious media shift to delete me from being the central essence of the Smiths,
he wrote on his website in January. He emphasized his thorough creative contribution, stating, I invented the group name, the song-titles, the album titles, the artwork, the vocal melodies, and all of the lyrical sentiments came from my heart … and so it’s a bit like saying Mick Jagger had nothing to do with the Stones.
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Key Events Timeline
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| 2018 | Johnny marr attempts to collaborate with Morrissey on trademark protection. |
| 2023 | Morrissey alleges Marr obtained trademark rights without consultation. |
| january 2024 | Morrissey publicly criticizes perceived attempts to diminish his role in The Smiths. |
| September 4, 2024 | Morrissey announces intention to sell his rights to The Smiths’ catalog. |
Did you Know?
The Smiths, formed in Manchester, England in 1982, released four studio albums and numerous singles that became staples of alternative rock and influenced generations of musicians.
Pro Tip:
Understanding the complexities of music copyright and trademark law is crucial when considering the implications of this sale.These rights determine who controls the use and distribution of The Smiths’ music.
The details of the sale,including potential buyers and the financial terms,remain undisclosed. However, this move represents a significant turning point in the legacy of The Smiths, potentially reshaping how their music is experienced and preserved for future generations.
What are your thoughts on Morrissey’s decision to sell his rights? How do you think this will impact the future of The smiths’ music?
Frequently Asked Questions
What rights is Morrissey selling?
Morrissey is selling his ownership stake in the publishing and master recording rights to The Smiths’ catalog, which includes the songs, lyrics, and recorded versions of their music.
Why is Morrissey selling his rights to The Smiths’ catalog?
Morrissey’s decision follows a dispute with Johnny Marr regarding trademark ownership and creative control, and appears to be a move to separate himself from the band’s legacy.
What dose this mean for Johnny Marr?
While johnny Marr currently holds the trademark to The Smiths’ name, this sale does not directly affect his ownership of the trademark, but it could influence future licensing and usage of the band’s music.
Will The Smiths’ music be re-released?
A new owner of the catalog may choose to re-release The Smiths’ music, potentially with remastered versions or bonus content.
How will this affect fans of The Smiths?
The sale could impact how fans access and experience The Smiths’ music, potentially influencing licensing for films, television, and other media.
The Enduring Legacy of The Smiths
The Smiths, active from 1982 to 1987, left an indelible mark on alternative rock with their distinctive sound and Morrissey’s poignant lyrics. Their influence extends to numerous artists across genres, and their songs continue to resonate with audiences worldwide. the band’s breakup was acrimonious, and tensions between morrissey and Marr have persisted for decades, making this latest development a significant chapter in their complex history.
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