Johnny Marr (born 31 October 1963) is an English musician and songwriter. Marr was co-songwriter – with Morrissey – and guitarist of The Smiths between 1982–87. He also was a member of
...
Johnny Marr (born 31 October 1963) is an English musician and songwriter. Marr was co-songwriter – with Morrissey – and guitarist of The Smiths between 1982–87. He also was a member of Electronic, The The and Modest Mouse. In 2008, he joined The Cribs after touring with them on 2008's NME awards Tour, a group in which he would remain until 2011. In 2012 Marr announced he would be releasing a solo album titled The Messenger.
Marr's guitar playing "was a huge building block" for more Manchester bands that followed The Smiths. The Stone Roses guitarist John Squire has stated that Marr was a major influence. Oasis lead guitarist Noel Gallagher credited The Smiths an influence, especially Marr, whom he described as a "fucking wizard", also stating that "he's unique, you can't play what he plays."
He is an honorary board member of Rock For Kids. He is teetotal, vegan and runs regularly. On 19 July 2012, he received an honorary doctorate from the University of Salford for "outstanding achievements" and "changing the face of British guitar music".