Johnny Marr receives Record Store Legend title in Manchester
- Johnny Marr was honored with the title of Record Store Legend in Manchester for his continued support of independent music shops.
- A plaque commemorating his efforts was unveiled at Piccadilly Records, a notable venue in his hometown.
- Marr's recognition emphasizes the cultural significance of record stores, especially as he prepares to release a special album for Record Store Day 2025.
In Manchester, England, musician Johnny Marr has received the title of Record Store Legend, recognizing his significant support for independent record stores globally. The acknowledgment was marked by the unveiling of a plaque at Piccadilly Records, an important venue in the city and the place where Marr co-founded the renowned band The Smiths in 1982. This accolade was jointly awarded by Record Store Day US and UK and follows Sir Elton John's designation as the first recipient of this honor in 2017. Marr expressed his appreciation for record stores, emphasizing their cultural importance and how they enhance city centers and high streets. As part of the Record Store Day 2025 celebrations taking place on April 12, Marr is set to release a special edition of his album "Look Out Live!" which captures his performance at the Hammersmith Apollo in London in 2024. The album will feature popular tracks including "Hi Hello" and old classics from The Smiths such as "This Charming Man" and "How Soon Is Now?" This release showcases Marr's enduring influence and connection to music fans across different generations. In the early 1980s, Johnny Marr and Morrissey formed The Smiths in Manchester, bringing together musicians Andy Rourke and Mike Joyce. The group quickly rose to prominence, achieving commercial success with several hit songs. However, Marr departed from the band in 1987 to pursue various other projects. Since then, he has maintained an active solo career, collaborating with diverse artists like Billie Eilish, Modest Mouse, Talking Heads, and Hans Zimmer, reflecting his versatility as a musician. The celebration of Record Store Day highlights the vital role that record stores play in the music landscape, creating spaces for artists and communities to engage with music culture. Over 300 artists will participate in the 2025 festivities, which will include special events in stores and limited-edition releases, underscoring the ongoing importance of independent record shops, with Marr's recognition serving to further underline this message.