Johnny Marr’s Strange Collaborations

Prepare for suprise as we take you on a musical journey through Johnny's extraordinary career. While you may recognize him as The Smiths legendary guitarist who’s Top Of The Pops appearance inspired a generation, the depth of his collaborations may shock you. Join us as we unveil the lesser-known connections of this remarkable artist.

Johnny Marr and Kirsty MacColl

The pair were firm friends and collaborators since 1986 when Kirsty sang backing vocals on The Smiths ‘Bigmouth Strikes Again’. Johnny went on to play guitar on a number of tracks for Kirsty, including her cover of The Kinks ‘Days’ alongside David Gilmour, which was a top 15 hit.

Johnny Marr and Bryan Ferry

Johnny first played guitar for Roxy Music frontman Bryan Ferry in 1987 on a song called ‘The Right Stuff’. It was the first single from Ferry’s seventh album ‘Bête Noire’. The two have collaborated and played live together a number of times through the years, in 2014 Marr played on Ferry’s solo album alongside Nile Rodgers for the track ‘Driving Me Wild’.

Johnny Marr and Paul McCartney

At age 23, Johnny’s unique guitar playing had caught the attention of The Beatles bassist Paul McCartney, who called him up and invited him over to jam. They played for hours and Johnny shared a mic with McCartney to sing ‘I Saw Her Standing There’.

Johnny Marr and Chrissie Hynde / The Pretenders

In 1987, Johnny was temporarily a member of Chrissie Hynde’s band The Pretenders and joined them opening for U2, playing ‘Kid’. He toured with the band and appeared on the single ‘Windows of the World’.

Johnny Marr and Tom Jones

In 1999, Tom Jones collaborated with The Pretenders to record a version of Iggy Pop’s iconic song ‘Lust for Life’. Johnny Marr played guitar, harmonica and laid down vocals for the track which appears on Tom Jones album ‘Reload’.