Discover 10 Hidden Facts About The Smiths’ Classic ‘This Charming Man’
The Smiths’ iconic track “This Charming Man” was released on October 31, 1983, coinciding with Halloween and guitarist Johnny Marr’s 20th birthday. This single marked The Smiths’ second release and catapulted them into the British music scene, showcasing their catchy guitar riff and clever lyrics.
Key Facts About ‘This Charming Man’
- Release Date: October 31, 1983
- Chart Performance: Initially peaked at Number 25; reissued and peaked at Number 8 in 1992.
- Writers: Morrissey (lyrics) and Johnny Marr (music).
- Record Label: Rough Trade Records.
- Influences: Inspired by Aztec Camera’s “Walk Out To Winter” and Morrissey’s favorite films.
- Notable Lyrics: Drawn from “A Taste Of Honey” and “Sleuth”.
- Musical Techniques: Marr used overdubbing and unique sounds, such as a knife on his guitar.
- Subsequent Releases: Different mixes led to the “Manchester” and “London” versions and a remix for the U.S. market.
- Streaming Success: Currently the second most-streamed song by The Smiths on Spotify, with over 673 million plays.
Recording Insights
Johnny Marr was determined to craft an upbeat tune to contrast Morrissey’s introspective lyrics. After a less than stellar reception of their debut single, Marr sought to elevate their sound. Drawing inspiration from Aztec Camera, he aimed for a bouncier feel that would resonate with audiences.
The lyrics were not just crafted from his imagination. Morrissey incorporated lines from significant films greatly influencing the song’s tone. The song’s narrative revolves around a young man stranded on a moor, receiving an ambiguous offer from an older man in a car.
Release and Reception
While “This Charming Man” did not appear on The Smiths’ debut album initially, it later featured as a bonus track on the American version. Its success marked a pivotal moment for the band, elevating them from obscurity to prominence in the indie music scene.
The single’s layered production included 15 guitar overdubs, setting a new standard for alternative rock sound. This unique approach influenced future bands, making it a touchstone in music history.
Cultural Impact
The song’s ambiguous lyrics sparked discussions, including unexpected political interpretations. Notably, former Conservative MP David Cameron named it among his favorite songs, prompting a response from Marr who humorously rejected such an association.
Moreover, the band’s performances on television in November 1983, featuring Morrissey with gladioli, helped to expand their fanbase dramatically. This vivid imagery and performance style became synonymous with The Smiths, further solidifying their place in music history.
