In the world of music, some stories are as captivating as they are controversial. Today, we delve into the life and times of Mike Joyce, the drummer behind The Smiths, a band that left an indelible mark on the music industry. But here's where it gets intriguing: Joyce's relationship with his former bandmate, Morrissey, has taken an unexpected turn, and it's a tale that will leave you wanting more.
Imagine a November evening in 1983, when an ex-punk, just 20 years old, found himself in the pink-lit BBC Television Centre. Little did he know that this moment would be a stepping stone to musical greatness. Alongside friends Johnny Marr and Andy Rourke, and the enigmatic Morrissey, they formed The Smiths, a band that would become an iconic part of music history.
Now, at 62, Mike Joyce reflects on those incredible times. With a groovy dad vibe and a Tiggerish energy, he shares his memoir, 'The Drums', a title inspired by Morrissey's unique way of crediting him on album sleeves. But this book isn't just about the past; it's a journey through the band's short yet impactful lifespan and the legal battle that followed.
Joyce's story begins with his Irish Catholic upbringing, the youngest of five, and a near-death experience that changed his life. He survived a hit-and-run, and his quick wit saved him from internal bleeding. From there, he fell in love with punk, got his first drum kit at 15, and the rest, as they say, is history.
His drumming style, a perfect blend of punk edge and soft magic, elevated songs like 'The Queen Is Dead' and 'Bigmouth Strikes Again'. Meanwhile, Morrissey's songwriting, universal yet unique, explored themes of shunning and lust. But behind the scenes, Morrissey was a distant figure, often ignoring his bandmates.
In the book, Joyce shares his last encounters with Morrissey and Marr. He recalls a chance meeting with Morrissey in a computer shop, a moment that could have been a reunion but was thwarted by a shop assistant. As for Marr, Joyce last saw him at a Manchester City match, keeping things civil despite the band's split.
The split was painful, and Joyce recalls the moment Marr announced his departure. It was a bereavement, he says, a loss of not just a bandmate but a dear friend. Despite this, Joyce maintains a respectful distance, believing they are above any bitterness.
While a band reunion seems unlikely, Joyce finds joy in hearing covers of The Smiths' songs, a testament to their enduring legacy. He's even friends with Joe Donovan from Blossoms, who have performed The Smiths' catalog with Rick Astley.
'The Drums' doesn't cover everything. It skips over Joyce's time with Sinead O'Connor, teaching Maxine Peake to play the drums, and his brief stint as the drummer for Suede. But these stories, and more, are part of the rich tapestry of Mike Joyce's life, a life that has been intertwined with The Smiths for over four decades.
And this is the part most people miss: Joyce's enduring love for The Smiths, a love that he shares with his wife of 42 years, Tina. She's his rock, keeping his feet on the ground, but when fans approach him, he tells them, 'Me too.'
So, what do you think? Is there more to this story than meets the eye? Should we delve deeper into the complexities of these musical legends' relationships? Let's discuss it in the comments!
