I realize I haven’t
written anything in quite a while, partially because I’ve
been rather busy planning my trip for the upcoming tour, among a few
other distractions. One other reason is that this article I’ve embarked upon turned out to be a fairly lengthy endeavour and at some
point it dawned on me it would make more sense to divide it into
sections. For a while now I’ve been meaning to compile a list of
favourite Morrissey interviews – and originally my intention was to
include a mix of radio and video clips. As I wanted to establish
familiarity with certain interviews, it made perfect sense for me to
listen to each clip from head to toe; this is something I’ve
enjoyed doing with a cup of coffee in hand every other afternoon over
the last couple of weeks. We are lucky to have a wealth of material at our fingertips when it comes to interviews; however, I soon realized, if I wanted to publish this before the tour even
begins, I would need to split up my articles.
In the month between
these blogs I’ve managed to book hotels and flights, and I've also
picked up a set of tour journals, into which I will try to scribble notes which I'll have to decode on my return if I decide to
piece together, in writing, any of my concert or travel experiences. My spur-of-the-moment handwriting
is shoddy, so sentences scrawled in airports tend to hold just
enough messy mystery to confuse me. I’m very pleased that this time
I found notebooks covered with cute animals, which made my trip to the
nearest shopping mall worthwhile. This is saying a lot, as my closest
bet is a boxy beige, run down, locked-in-the-80’s dystopic maze of Keno
tables, creepy fluorescent-lit dollar shops, and a food court area smelling unbearably of hot dog sweat.
 |
| Cute animal journals |
As for the tour dates I'm attending,
April can’t come soon enough. I can't wait for the concerts - and I’ve only ever spent less than 24
hours in Texas, so I’m eager to return. One thing
I’ve learned is that along the road from San Antonio to Houston
there are several elaborately painted churches dating back to the 19th century, and perhaps even some ghost towns.
I may visit a couple if time allows. I’ve also been on the lookout
for cat cafes (as usual) but there don’t seem to be many. As we
count down to tour, a number of websites have published Morrissey
print interviews, which is always a great bonus to his being on the road. These days, seeing that I'm a bit of an amateur bird photographer (okay, very amateur) and duck friend, one of my favourite anecdotes in the interviews was about a crane that lived near the studio in Houston during recording sessions for Years of Refusal.
 |
| "A very brave bird." Crane by S.Tabone: http://stabone.com/ |
Before I stray too
far, let’s get back to my original task: to focus on Morrissey’s radio interviews, spanning from
the 1980’s-2000’s. Do people still listen to the radio? I’m not
sure how influential radios are in the 21st century, and
in a sense perhaps that’s rather unfortunate. I might be totally
clueless on this point, however, as I am relatively avoidant of radios
in general. Yes, I love music, but maybe I’m a slight control freak
in that I prefer choosing
what I’m going to
listen to. I'm also not a fan of being subjected to hollering ads, which frequently tend to be selling revolting things like chicken wings. Mostly I
think I’m still haunted by late 1980's childhood memories
of being imprisoned in the back seat of a Ford during one of my parents' road trips, the radio tuned into
“soft favourites”, with Phil Collins-to
Michael Bolton- to Phil
Collins making endlessly predictable rotation on the station. A fuzzy blur of 'ugh'. No
wonder in a few years teenage angst would lead
me to Nirvana.
That said, not all stations are created equal and my hunch is that there are some good ones out there. For our purpose here, we are very lucky that a number of Morrissey’s radio interviews over
the years have been preserved
on Youtube. I admittedly was much more familiar with the Morrissey
video interviews available, but luckily one of my Twitter
friends, Janah, ( @__Janah_ ) is basically a Morrissey interview
expert; she often posts some great ones I’ve never even
heard before - so I knew she would be the person to ask. She was so kind as to direct me towards some insightful, intelligent,
and in-depth interviews with
Moz.
If
you have a chance, give some of these a listen: they
capture Moz’s sparkling wit, and views on life and art.
I’ve listed them chronologically, with a
synopsis of the topics
discussed, and some quotes that
captivated me.
1. Radio Dublin Interview 1984
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zA5DzVfWHqA&feature=youtu.be
Morrissey discusses the Smiths' first live gig. He speaks about his influences such as James Dean, Sandie Shaw, and Oscar Wilde. The conversation delves into the perils of growing up in 1970's Manchester and how the education system pushed students towards manual subjects in preparation for factory work. Morrissey describes how, in his youth, he loved reading and excelled in athletics - such as running (perhaps his talent as an athlete influenced his 2015 novel List of the Lost?).
He also explores how segregation of the sexes is incredibly destructive, and the cliché idea of the 'macho male' is boring.
2. KROQ 1990 w/ Richard Blade
Part 1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WdofWMZrHY0&feature=youtu.be
Part 2: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rvmYxUrXkrU
Morrissey discusses Vegetarianism and how in people's minds there is often a misleading and incorrect divide between the living, breathing animal in the field and the packaged 'products' available in supermarkets. He talks about the Ouija Board, Ouija Board single and controversy surrounding it.
There is an interesting conversation about conflict of hope and desperation, and general disappointment in the human race. The world itself affects one's writing; the planet is generally falling apart and there isn't currently much hope in its leaders (Hmm.... round, round, rhythm of life goes round). The topic of depression naturally follows: Morrissey says the world in which we live "denies [our somber moments, feelings - and] people become even more frustrated" due to not being able to express these feelings.
Musings over Manchester in the 1970's follow, as well as Morrissey's literary influences, such as Wilde and George Eliot. He mentions his love of Emily Bronte's Wuthering Heights.
The conversation returns to politics and Thatcher, and what personality type is usually drawn to politics: typically a "ruthless, brutal person."
The interview wraps up with topics of how the intelligence of certain audiences is underrated, cliché in music videos, and loneliness.
3. GLR, 1999
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7fdyKGxAXUs&t=9s
Moz has recently moved to Los Angeles and Sean Hughes asks him what he misses about England, and also which things he doesn't miss, such as the "dopey princes". They talk about animal rights: fox hunting and Vegetarianism. The British press is discussed, and the juxtaposition of his devoted audience and those who are 'devoted' to relentless criticism: two sides of the coin to being the object of ardent devotion. Morrissey talks about his growing Mexican fan base.
Also explored are Morrissey's Smiths days and solo career - and motivation for writing, including the possibility of penning a novel.
They speak more of LA life, and the aspects of Mozzer's usual day, and compare the soaps in the US versus the UK; in England the soaps show people in "total drudgery and old cardigans" as opposed to the hyperbolic affluent glamour portrayed on American soap operas.
4. XFM, 2004
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZM5_Y1vCRsU
With the release of You Are The Quarry, Ian Camfield and Morrissey discuss the interest sparked in a new generation of younger fans. Morrissey describes how he documents his emotions in song - as an essayist or poet would do; "the direct approach is the best approach." They also touch on the stress and pain of constantly being publicly criticized when one is an emotionally sensitive person. Moz mentions writing his autobiography. Other topics include the British Press, Vegetarian food in the US versus the UK, and Meltdown Festival.
5. The Russell Brand Show #1 (2006):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k5Yqfd1lk_c
It's always amusing and enlightening when Rustle interviews Moz. Reminiscent of the Jonathan Ross TV interview in 2004, Morrissey corrects Russell's use of the verb "to perform", replacing it with his preferred "appear live." They talk about how TV interviews are rather different, and more of a challenge than the radio, particularly if one is not a bouncy extrovert.
Morrissey explores the way people mimic him, attached to this image of him from his younger years, described as "almost dead in the bath" or a "perpetual miserabilist." Brand has some interesting things to say about Moz as a new archetype, making the mundane become the heroic. The World is Full of Crashing Bores - as Morrissey elaborates on how the majority of the human race is boring and overrated - and tabloids simply assume everyone is a "blithering idiot." More topics include Manchester in the 1960's and 70's, Victoria Wood, The New York Dolls, Mexico, Art, Vegetarianism, and the horrors of Jamie Oliver
6. The Russell Brand Show #2 (2008):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_UJSflJMi9Q&t=4s
Another mesmerizing interview with "Gristle Bandage." They talk about favourite Smiths and Morrissey solo career songs, as well as a dinner party they both attended. Somehow Morrissey always ends up being the one interviewing Rustle, which is really quite funny. Comedic talents are explored and the fact that those who think they are hilarious, rarely are. Russell Brand's mother, ignoring the "rude bits" of his humour, makes a guest appearance and a conversation about cats ensues. Moz considers people's view of him for being "miserable" and how this is rather boring, and not particularly accurate. Other topics include Chrissie Hynde, politics, and "Sexiest Vegetarian." The interview ends with what can only be described as a stunning musical performance of "I'm Forever Blowing Bubbles" by Russell.
7. Desert Island Discs, 2009
http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b00p068y
Morrissey is a guest on BBC Radio 4's Desert Island Discs, which includes a number of musical tracks selected by him, as well as an interview. Moz discusses his frustration with the press and their obsession with the Smiths, when he has released decades of solo albums stretching beyond that era. He talks about how he sees poetry and sadness in everything. Kirsty Young asks him about his childhood and he explains his early love for record shops and fascination with the singing voice. "Fear of normality" was one of his motivators for success, or to lead a different life.
Life is a Pigsty: "the world is a mesmerizing mess."..."human beings are mesmerizing messes."
Young asks Morrissey if he would ever consider "settling down" - and he says he finds the idea of being a "happy couple with a photo on the television set...quite embarrassing" and expresses his distaste at the prospect of getting involved with a bunch of relatives. (I love that part!) The conversation moves towards Vegetarianism and the influence of Morrissey's mother, as well as the milestone of turning fifty. Morrissey discusses self destruction and his understanding of people who self-destruct. Musical choices include the New York Dolls, Nico, and the Ramones - although you'll have to listen to hear his final selections for the island :)
8. BBC Radio 4 with John Wilson, 2011
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z52m_wAYHAk
Wilson asks Morrissey if he would have become a novelist if he had not become a singer. He also asks him if there are any songs from his catalogue he doesn't like to sing as he has gotten older, and Moz says there are a few that he wouldn't, that are mostly "unanswered mating calls." Moz talks about his Autobiography and the importance of titles in songwriting. Wilson asks the predictable Smiths reunion question. Other topics include royalty, politics, and the challenges of aging within the music industry.
And that's all I have for now. If you have some spare time over the weekend and want to reacquaint yourself with some Morrissey interviews there are definitely gems in here, especially the two interviews with Russell and Desert Island Discs. Next up is the Morrissey Mexico tour - and I'm really looking forward to hearing about the concerts and seeing photos.
1. Radio Dublin Interview 1984
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zA5DzVfWHqA&feature=youtu.be
Morrissey discusses the Smiths' first live gig. He speaks about his influences such as James Dean, Sandie Shaw, and Oscar Wilde. The conversation delves into the perils of growing up in 1970's Manchester and how the education system pushed students towards manual subjects in preparation for factory work. Morrissey describes how, in his youth, he loved reading and excelled in athletics - such as running (perhaps his talent as an athlete influenced his 2015 novel List of the Lost?).
He also explores how segregation of the sexes is incredibly destructive, and the cliché idea of the 'macho male' is boring.
2. KROQ 1990 w/ Richard Blade
Part 1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WdofWMZrHY0&feature=youtu.be
Part 2: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rvmYxUrXkrU
Morrissey discusses Vegetarianism and how in people's minds there is often a misleading and incorrect divide between the living, breathing animal in the field and the packaged 'products' available in supermarkets. He talks about the Ouija Board, Ouija Board single and controversy surrounding it.
There is an interesting conversation about conflict of hope and desperation, and general disappointment in the human race. The world itself affects one's writing; the planet is generally falling apart and there isn't currently much hope in its leaders (Hmm.... round, round, rhythm of life goes round). The topic of depression naturally follows: Morrissey says the world in which we live "denies [our somber moments, feelings - and] people become even more frustrated" due to not being able to express these feelings.
Musings over Manchester in the 1970's follow, as well as Morrissey's literary influences, such as Wilde and George Eliot. He mentions his love of Emily Bronte's Wuthering Heights.
The conversation returns to politics and Thatcher, and what personality type is usually drawn to politics: typically a "ruthless, brutal person."
The interview wraps up with topics of how the intelligence of certain audiences is underrated, cliché in music videos, and loneliness.
3. GLR, 1999
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7fdyKGxAXUs&t=9s
Moz has recently moved to Los Angeles and Sean Hughes asks him what he misses about England, and also which things he doesn't miss, such as the "dopey princes". They talk about animal rights: fox hunting and Vegetarianism. The British press is discussed, and the juxtaposition of his devoted audience and those who are 'devoted' to relentless criticism: two sides of the coin to being the object of ardent devotion. Morrissey talks about his growing Mexican fan base.
Also explored are Morrissey's Smiths days and solo career - and motivation for writing, including the possibility of penning a novel.
They speak more of LA life, and the aspects of Mozzer's usual day, and compare the soaps in the US versus the UK; in England the soaps show people in "total drudgery and old cardigans" as opposed to the hyperbolic affluent glamour portrayed on American soap operas.
4. XFM, 2004
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZM5_Y1vCRsU
With the release of You Are The Quarry, Ian Camfield and Morrissey discuss the interest sparked in a new generation of younger fans. Morrissey describes how he documents his emotions in song - as an essayist or poet would do; "the direct approach is the best approach." They also touch on the stress and pain of constantly being publicly criticized when one is an emotionally sensitive person. Moz mentions writing his autobiography. Other topics include the British Press, Vegetarian food in the US versus the UK, and Meltdown Festival.
5. The Russell Brand Show #1 (2006):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k5Yqfd1lk_c
It's always amusing and enlightening when Rustle interviews Moz. Reminiscent of the Jonathan Ross TV interview in 2004, Morrissey corrects Russell's use of the verb "to perform", replacing it with his preferred "appear live." They talk about how TV interviews are rather different, and more of a challenge than the radio, particularly if one is not a bouncy extrovert.
Morrissey explores the way people mimic him, attached to this image of him from his younger years, described as "almost dead in the bath" or a "perpetual miserabilist." Brand has some interesting things to say about Moz as a new archetype, making the mundane become the heroic. The World is Full of Crashing Bores - as Morrissey elaborates on how the majority of the human race is boring and overrated - and tabloids simply assume everyone is a "blithering idiot." More topics include Manchester in the 1960's and 70's, Victoria Wood, The New York Dolls, Mexico, Art, Vegetarianism, and the horrors of Jamie Oliver
6. The Russell Brand Show #2 (2008):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_UJSflJMi9Q&t=4s
Another mesmerizing interview with "Gristle Bandage." They talk about favourite Smiths and Morrissey solo career songs, as well as a dinner party they both attended. Somehow Morrissey always ends up being the one interviewing Rustle, which is really quite funny. Comedic talents are explored and the fact that those who think they are hilarious, rarely are. Russell Brand's mother, ignoring the "rude bits" of his humour, makes a guest appearance and a conversation about cats ensues. Moz considers people's view of him for being "miserable" and how this is rather boring, and not particularly accurate. Other topics include Chrissie Hynde, politics, and "Sexiest Vegetarian." The interview ends with what can only be described as a stunning musical performance of "I'm Forever Blowing Bubbles" by Russell.
7. Desert Island Discs, 2009
http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b00p068y
Morrissey is a guest on BBC Radio 4's Desert Island Discs, which includes a number of musical tracks selected by him, as well as an interview. Moz discusses his frustration with the press and their obsession with the Smiths, when he has released decades of solo albums stretching beyond that era. He talks about how he sees poetry and sadness in everything. Kirsty Young asks him about his childhood and he explains his early love for record shops and fascination with the singing voice. "Fear of normality" was one of his motivators for success, or to lead a different life.
Life is a Pigsty: "the world is a mesmerizing mess."..."human beings are mesmerizing messes."
Young asks Morrissey if he would ever consider "settling down" - and he says he finds the idea of being a "happy couple with a photo on the television set...quite embarrassing" and expresses his distaste at the prospect of getting involved with a bunch of relatives. (I love that part!) The conversation moves towards Vegetarianism and the influence of Morrissey's mother, as well as the milestone of turning fifty. Morrissey discusses self destruction and his understanding of people who self-destruct. Musical choices include the New York Dolls, Nico, and the Ramones - although you'll have to listen to hear his final selections for the island :)
8. BBC Radio 4 with John Wilson, 2011
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z52m_wAYHAk
Wilson asks Morrissey if he would have become a novelist if he had not become a singer. He also asks him if there are any songs from his catalogue he doesn't like to sing as he has gotten older, and Moz says there are a few that he wouldn't, that are mostly "unanswered mating calls." Moz talks about his Autobiography and the importance of titles in songwriting. Wilson asks the predictable Smiths reunion question. Other topics include royalty, politics, and the challenges of aging within the music industry.
And that's all I have for now. If you have some spare time over the weekend and want to reacquaint yourself with some Morrissey interviews there are definitely gems in here, especially the two interviews with Russell and Desert Island Discs. Next up is the Morrissey Mexico tour - and I'm really looking forward to hearing about the concerts and seeing photos.
