Story Of How An 80s B Side Became This Band's Greatest Song | Professor of Rock

[@ProfessorofRock]

Poll: What are some of the greatest B sides or album tracks of the 80s?

[@cathleenkarlsson979]

"You Might Recall", B side of "Paperlate" - Genesis (IMHO :) )

[@TalisSolepsis]

For outright silly value courtesy of the play on "The Young Ones", try "Nasty" by The Damned.

[@jimoscuba]

Once upon a daydream b side to the police every breathe you take. I used to buy single because they had b-sides of songs not on the album.

[@surlechapeau]

"Into the Groove" Madonna , "The Sweetest Thing" U2

[@augustosolari7721]

Your funny uncle, Pet Shop Boys. It was the b side to "Left to My own devices"

[@hersheybarber1424]

It's insane how many great songs The Smiths actually have. They made it seem effortless. And to think they were only active from 82-87 just makes you wonder.

[@zarrow50]

Most bands lat about 5 years

[@v-town1980]

​@@zarrow50Most bands (if they're lucky) get one or two hits.😂

[@_D_E_N_N_I_S_]

I have a hard time finding a track i want to skip

[@davidasamikwa8037]

“I am human and I need to be loved, just like everybody else does” is a line that plays through my head all the time and I am grateful for it

[@Skabanis]

And the way morrisey sings it is heart breaking

[@Noodleydoo]

I just read an interview with Mike Joyce, the drummer--and he said Johnny was so productive, so insanely creative, that he just cranked out one brilliant song after the other and he just got used to it. It became commonplace--a great problem to have!

[@SynthMusicWorld]

I'm not exaggerating or kidding when I say "How Soon is Now" profoundly changed my life when I heard it for the first time, probably in 1987. I was in the Navy at the time, and one of my co-workers was into bands like The Cure, The Smiths, etc., and he played "How Soon is Now" for me. It almost literally knocked me down, because it was the first song I had ever heard that really, truly, explained my own feelings of loneliness and isolation at the time. Up until really 1986 I had listened to top-40 radio, and there's nothing wrong with that, but none of it resonated in me quite like Morrissey's mournful singing did. I also rock a Smiths t-shirt at work, although I think 99.9% of my co-workers have no idea who they are, aside from one yesterday who said "I like your shirt!"

[@chriswallace9113]

Similar experience for me but the song was “What Difference Does it Make” and it was about 1986.

[@timothymarkin4481]

Sadly, Morrissey just comes off as a jerk these days

[@vsander09]

@@timothymarkin4481 not go everyone. Also, why do you care? What other artists do you track into old age?

[@SynthMusicWorld]

@@timothymarkin4481 yeah, I was watching some concert footage of him from within the last couple of years, and he looked like he was bothered to be there, like he was too much of a star or something. I guess it could also be an act, too. Who knows with him.

[@matthewcarlton5693]

I was in sixth grade, my friend got Meat is Murder for Christmas. (U.S. edition had the song) and he said listen to this, its called new wave, I was blown away.

[@wamatt2538]

The Smiths, the Cure, Depeche Mode, Pet Shop Boys and New Order are truly my greatest musical groups. They all have helped me in so many ways.

[@JustFortheRecord66]

I’d add Echo & the Bunnymen to that list for sure.

[@damirpozgaj2296]

Don't forget The Sisters of Mercy, The Stranglers, Inxs, Midnight Oil, Ice House, Alphaville, Camouflage, Ultravox, Soft Cell, Human League...........

[@RadioPsychicAstrologyByPepper]

@@damirpozgaj2296and having hit a wall in my own songwriting career years ago I have recently been dipping back into just the joy of playing covers of songs by almost every band mentioned here…. Ultravox and think song were the past evening and pet shop boys and some depeche mode last week… my first album in 93 jade a cover of the cure’s last dance…. Definitely my favorite music era although I don’t think I can sing alphaville like the kate bush vocal range of my youth! ☘️🙂🍀❤️

[@warrendebary2225]

I was a Jock, a Football Player and relatively popular that never understood why I felt so alone in High School. In College, I was turned on to the Smiths and this song identified so much of why I felt the way I did. How Soon is Now was a revelation, an epiphany that I was only an outcast wearing the mask of acceptance. Thank you for framing this song, this time and the teenage angst so many of us experienced so adeptly. Best to you and bravo

[@mommaluna4211]

Welcome to the club!😊

[@stanettiels7367]

Well I’m a Brit so not a “jock”. Nonetheless, I totally identify with your comment. I was popular and was basically faking being popular. I was always socially awkward inside but essentially just played a role of being outgoing. That lie I told myself, well it bit me hard later in life.

[@lindsaymcdade310]

@@stanettiels7367 I think he means, Jock as in the American sporty guy way lol. I am also a Jock, in the Scottish type way, finding the Smiths in my teens in the eighties changed my life too.

[@iamsimonmorris]

The number one band of my life. I feel blessed to have been a teenager at this time. I received their first Album for my Birthday from a friend, he had no idea who they were, he just thought as I was photography obsessed I would love the cover. He told me the guy just unboxed it at the store and couldn't tell him anything about it so he purchased it anyway. The next day I was home alone and stuck it on...from the first track I was hooked. Thanks, Mark for a life-changing 16th BDay present.

[@ellenmeilee]

100 per cent get this. Me too. Songs that made me cry, songs that changed my life. I feel I can die happy for growing up in the time of the Smiths. People that don’t get this, I might like them a hell of a lot, but I can’t say we will ever truly bond.

[@shokojimhollingsworth3940]

Meant to be

[@patZ28]

Great story thanx for sharing👍

[@RK-ti2qq]

FYI George Eliot is the pen name of Mary Ann Evans, a female author.

[@jswjanjan]

👍🌞

[@jennifermorris6848]

Came here to make the same comment. So pleased to see so many others on the ball.

[@nolongerthere]

@@jennifermorris6848 Same here!

[@johnray1067]

I'm late to the party, I'm glad others also caght this.

[@troutbreath]

Saved me a comment. English majors unite!

[@joescummer150]

How soon is now is the ringtone I have assigned to my daughter, the song really resonated with me when I was a kid back in the 80’s and it means a lot to me and so I assigned it to the one truly beautiful thing I helped create.

[@foxopossum]

Awwwwwww. I love that

[@starshake8998]

❤️

[@judeannethecandorchannel2153]

Lovely! : )

[@6lillium]

Johnny Marr is criminally underrated....

[@juanr1956]

Is not Johnny Marr... but Johnny Fucking Marr!!

[@ilovetrance3036]

F morrisey. It was Marr who wrote these anthems. Look what happened when morrisey went solo. Weho trash

[@martinevensen406]

@@ilovetrance3036 i heard that morrisey made melodies for vocal lines for the smiths. So he wrote these anthems too. Morrisey is underrated

[@fifthof1795]

Yet another fu/uckin' ...."criminally underrated" comment. Jeez, show some originality. Just who the f..k is criminally underating him....?

[@novadhd]

not underrated at all

[@mattygee5000]

Only Morrisey could make the phrase 'nothing in particular' totally epic

[@rickabyg7914]

Oh man, this had me sobbing. This song and its lyrics don't just resonate with awkward, misunderstood teens. It encapsulates exactly how I feel as a 56 year old, painfully lonely man. Kudos to you, PoR, for such a detailed and respectful analysis, both intellectual and emotional, of this masterpiece. Peace and love to you all!

[@SeptemberGurl1]

Tears were flowing for me as well. Sure the teenage years are difficult but it doesn’t end there. When you’re shy with a battered heart, crippling loneliness feels like a death sentence. “How Soon is Now” is exactly what I needed to hear today to keep me passing the open windows.

[@franksantos3418]

I just remember when this song came on the radio (91X San Diego) everyone turned the volume to high. This song sounded like nothing else being played and was a staple for everyone on the beach and the clubs. Best times (80’s)of my life!

[@patriciajackson2565]

91X in the 1980s changed my world!👍

[@KarineMichele112]

91x was the only station in 80s San diego

[@2Chickaboom2]

Lived in San Diego from 87 to 98 and 91X was a lifesaver which I had on 3 years solid as I didn’t have, nor did I want, to own a TV at the time. Go home from work, paint, write, read and listen to 91X.

[@patZ28]

91X 👍in SD and KROQ in LA I lived in both areas both legandary radio stations great times

[@jefff2223]

This, and so many other Smiths tracks, along with the Cure, New Order and DM, were the backing tracks to nearly every memorable moment I had in college. Thanks for the trip, Professor!

[@daveshaw2342]

All great bands

[@dozer1642]

We were listening to the same music. ✌️

[@pfcampos7041]

Highschool for me but ditto!

[@boromirofmiddleearth557]

my college girlfriend in 88 in NYC was in to these new alt Brit groups. but also INXS 10000 maniacs, wish I would have taken the opportunity to go to a concert.

[@charl_k]

It was Depeche Mode for me

[@gregsteckline9528]

As many I love this song, and so do my college age children. On reflecting back on this song I find it ironic that in the goth and punk clubs I went to as a college age adult, you had a roomful of people most of which were there because they wanted to connect with others but were too shy to approach anyone. When this song would get played, the dance floor would fill up and suddenly a roomful of lonely people were connecting through a song that spoke to the feeling we all had. For this alone, it make this song a classic everyone high school and up should hear.

[@nanastan9]

Yes! I close my eyes and I'm right back in the City Club in downtown Detroit.

[@GreenLepidolite]

It’s so gratifying to hear someone discussing this song, that feels as passionate about it as I do. It has been a comfort and validation through many painful experiences in my life. I discovered it around the same time too. late 80s, about to start high school, along with The Cure, Depeche Mode, Psychedelic Furs… and one he didn’t mention, Pixies. The music that shaped me and saved me.

[@marktait2371]

beth same here was fortunate to see cure g.mu. furs 05 comeback tour but not able to get to smiths show g.m.u. last tour depeche same big show d.c. around the same time mega tour coludnt go but have live c.d. double of the tour and ol moz. came town several years ago with ol boz borrer and bunch but irionically was in wensleydale at the time friend went said moz and boz good show small venue national rva local gal lucy dacus bright eyes this weekend anyway nephew went to johnny show messenger nville show was promoting show and new guitar he was not familar with bands music but enjoyed show pixies came down to bburg va 123 cafe went to show before they went to england have the bbc c d. but ok not as good as studio records in small club sound not great but pixies back then if came to town support them short show about an hour or so but great band in unique style hard rockers for sure too loud but good show

[@andrewshippy6623]

I discovered you while searching for songs of my youth. I'm helping my step-daughters grieve their mother who just died of COVID and I needed the music that helped me through college. I didn't fit in and the Smiths (and later Morrissey), Depeche Mode, Roxy Music and others saved me. This was my first time seeing your videos. Great job on this one. You literally took words from my mouth! Thanks!

[@spencoir1]

This song never really leaves you…

[@limiter3118]

I wish it would.

[@BrooklynBaby100]

@@limiter3118😅 I know right, haunting.

[@wtrdawnlord]

I suffer from major Depressive Disorder and when I am in "the pit" music is one of the very few things that helps me cope with my feelings of worthlessness, guilt, shame and loneliness. How Soon Is Now is absolutely one of the songs to which I will listen obsessively. The lyrics and the feel of the music tells me I'm not the only one who feels like this and that someone understands how I feel and can sympathize. Along with Tyler Joseph and a few others, I could never thank Morrissey and John Marr enough for their music

[@suepedie1]

Agree!

[@paulamiles9559]

Shoplifters and GF in s Coma also pull me out of the blues.

[@Heartwing37]

I’ve never heard of someone being actually cheered up by Smiths music but I’m glad it helps. Love the Smiths!

[@WaterKreature]

When I'm feeling depressed playing certain music from grateful dead gets me more depressed state

[@judeannethecandorchannel2153]

May It always be there for you William....

[@markbock3027]

Don’t overlook Andy Rourke and Mike Joyce, one of the best rhythm sections in rock and roll.

[@maryreilly5102]

Word!

[@maxshea1829]

Abso-lutely!

[@cultureshopboys]

maravillosos !!!

[@deborahbennett4386]

R.I.P Andy Rourke 💔🖤

[@rrickey360]

So true 👍

[@mlesmar]

You refer to The Smiths as a “life changing band.” I agree You said “The Smiths really saved a lot of lives.” I am proof

[@highmileagehusband1915]

Right On Brother.b

[@davecarroll4163]

How Soon Is Now is a great song. Morrissey and Marr may have never reached those heights again. Hard to imagine in today's world that any artist could come close to doing what they did in 5 years. The 80's were possibly the last great decade for music. Thanks again for another great video, Adam.

[@ProfessorofRock]

You're welcome. What they did in 5 years is astounding for sure.

[@tonyvargas368]

Ive seen Morrissey in concert several times. The juxtaposition of seeing 50 + yo olds like myself and their teen kids entranced by this song is something I can’t even express in words. It’s a small but important bonding moment that I hope they can appreciate.

[@deborahbennett4386]

I'm so blessed to have seen both (and Morrisey can still rock it). As a woman in her 50s who is still gigging, I doubt I'll ever experience genius like it again.

[@tennysonfordblackbird2087]

I saw them in 1985😂

[@cirjames2540]

How Soon is Now is both sad and beautiful at the same time. Absolutely brilliant.

[@MobiusBandwidth]

like life!

[@brianfergus839]

It’s the Major/minor thing… plus the lyrics

[@Thomasmemoryscentral]

@@brianfergus839 For some reason, the instrumental reminds me of a slowed down version of the music for Led Zeppelin's Immigrant Song

[@mdbrumbach1]

Listening to this masterpiece in headphones takes it to another level.

[@mitchb.1746]

Johnny Marr is, IMO, possibly the most underrated song writers in my life time. He proved that not all guitar hero’s have to be shredders and technical wonders. His use of unique chords and chord progressions stood out amongst his peers and influenced many guitarists and bands behind him. I was just a tad too young to ever see The Smiths live. It’s a huge disappointment for me and I often say a Smiths Reunion would be a must-see for me. It’s a bucket list for dreamers I guess.

[@rylian21]

Johnny and Patrick both more or less said they'd rather eat broken glass and wash it down with rubbing alcohol than ever speak to each other again.

[@DaveMcGarry]

@@rylian21 so you're saying there's a chance...

[@darkotto5044]

But Marr was/is a technical wonder.

[@melaniejo5296]

@@DaveMcGarry 👍🏻

[@70srollergirl]

​@@DaveMcGarry😂

[@Z00Maddict]

That was a beautifully crafted review. Really felt your personal journey with this song and made me listen to my own response more deeply. Thanks for this.

[@davidparker9676]

The Smiths was pure musical magic. The combo of Morrissey and Marr produced some of the most powerful melodies and impactful lyrics. I have no doubt The Smiths saved thousands upon thousands of teenage lives.

[@joelhassig6099]

I'm one.

[@canto10mosha65]

Don’t forget their other hit “This Charming Man”.

[@davidparker9676]

@@canto10mosha65 As if they were a one hit wonder. They had several hits over a few short years.

[@tompaulcampbell]

Or at least gave them some depressing lyrics from Morrissey to listen to while they end it all!

[@davidparker9676]

@@tompaulcampbell You clearly have no clue. I'd bet that you loved mainstream corporate bands and never understood any lyrics past a simple repeating chorus of "mmmmm-bop"

[@kimberelydavis379]

It’s so haunting, lonely and dark, but still hopeful at the same time.

[@anthonydavies6980]

I must have been about 17 in 1985 when I got to the all ages club called the Encore in Renton, Washington right after they opened the doors and they must have been testing the smoke machine. I walked into a dimly lit , smokey room with How Soon is Now playing loudly but crisply wondering what this amazing sound was by myself. Every time I hear it I remember that moment. Magical.

[@RenayOpish]

Ha ha- me too, up in Vancouver BC though- the smoke machine and a dance floor

[@icequeen917]

As a teen in the eighties, I always thought of Morrisey as a modern Oscar Wilde. He certainly seemed to put on similar "affectations"! :)

[@raserx63]

I got to see Johnny Marr on his last tour before covid at Irving Plaza ,NYC. He did his solo stuff , plus some Smiths ....it was brilliant. To hear “How Soon is Now?” played live was surreal. I didn’t want it to end.

[@oscarthegrouch8992]

This is the deep dive on How Soon is Now we have all been waiting for.. some of us since the mid eighties- solid work Prof 👏🏼

[@WheelTek86]

This song resonated so deeply; I was a shy guy who was into a super cool girl and she would look right through me as if I wasn’t there. I found peace with the smiths and the cure. And hearing this song tonight gave me goosebumps. I haven’t heard it in a few years. I’m playing this on my way to work tomorrow!

[@andrewpetik2034]

This is the way I see this song.... I have no doubt in my mind that this song has saved lives and has made the lives of many outcast teenagers' lives bearable. It brought a light to my teenage years.... I personally believe in God. My take here is these people Marr, Morrissey, Rourke and Joyce used their God given talents and inspirations to Bless (encourage, better, enrich) their generation and generations to come with what they created. I believe that you use your God given talent, inspiration and passion for the material to create something that Blesses others...I am Blessed by your work here. I believe that this is how God works. Imagine the world where each and every human being were nurtured and allowed to do this.....utilizing their God given talents and inspiration for Blessing their fellow human beings. My wish. My hope. My prayer. Thank you 😊

[@seanmarshall5136]

RIGHT ON !!!!

[@condemned1982]

I LOVE Johnny Marr's solo work... he is so underrated as a guitarist and is even a pretty decent vocalist.

[@robinstreets1792]

Hi Hello is amazing, beautiful guitar melody, impossible for me to only listen to it once!

[@Sonnie0325]

This song was my anthem as a high school teenager. I remember buying that album and bringing it home and playing the song over and over, feeling it wash over me. Marr's riff and Morrissey's haunting voice took me to another place, and still does whenever I hear the song!

[@gholwiih]

I remember listening to a distant college radio station in TX late at night when I was a teenager and hearing this song. I was simply enthralled. They never said anything about it! It wasn't until I was in college myself a couple of years later that I found it again. I was like THAT'S THAT SONG!! I was so excited and started my journey with the Smiths from that moment on.

[@dianal5087]

I have a similar memory. Back then I listened to a college radio show based in Austin on Sunday nights, and one night this song came on. The lyrics were so different, and that guitar riff just floated around the dark room, and I was enthralled! Definitely a life changer.

[@jamesw1313]

It just meant so much more to find music back then. A snippet of a song from a distant radio station bounced around in your head for months/years and then out of nowhere-there it is. You could feel your brain light up almost an “explosion”. I know the feeling so well. Having a Public Enemy song that o heard about a minute of one time. When I found the album, tape actually, in a record store months later I couldn’t get home fast enough to play the album over and over till I learned every word of every song. It completely blew my sheltered suburban 14yo mind.

[@MkeKen67]

@@jamesw1313 - Was the song you heard called "Rise"? I think that's the first PIL song I ever heard. This Is Not a Love Song was the second song of theirs that I heard.

[@ericbush3399]

@@jamesw1313 Did you mean "Public Image Limited"?

[@captainlou9677]

I first heard this song when I was 15 in 1989. I wasn't bullied or mistreated in high school but I had always felt different from my peers. I was extremely introverted and this song became my anthem. It made my loneliness and isolation something to embrace. And it made me more empathetic to others who might be experiencing the same thing.

[@dennisflax]

Really enjoyed this track breakdown. I'm still marvelling about those 3 particular songs written in a week!

[@ProfessorofRock]

It's pretty mind blowing.

[@MrDLOC11]

" I am human and I need to be loved, just like everybody else does..." A raw declaration of loneliness and vulnerability makes the Smiths like no other group.

[@alliswede42]

Oh man, the last time you posted videos about The Smiths I went on a massive Smiths listening binge! And really, are there any more relatable lyrics than "You say it's gonna happen now, but when exactly do you mean? See, I've already waited too long, and all my hope is gone..." Also, I love the little details like random "Whistle While you Work" whistle towards the end and the bass offbeat hits! Marr + Moz= Musical magic 🤩

[@ProfessorofRock]

Love it. You should go on another Smiths binge!

[@Necron-ez2cc]

'You've Got Everything Now' is the one that did it for me. No one ever seems to talk about the musical depth and cathartic lyricism of that song.

[@skeeterd5150]

To the back of your carrrrrr

[@skeeterd5150]

One of my favorites too

[@Necron-ez2cc]

@@skeeterd5150 You are your mother's only son, and you're a desperate one.

[@RFXLR]

Excellent, excellent, EXCELLENT song!! I love listening to this song with headphones because there are so many sonic layers to discover.

[@ProfessorofRock]

I totally agree. It get richer with every passing. year.

[@troyundroy1]

Professor, i’ve been listening and a patreon for a while now, and your breakdown and heartfelt synopsis of this masterpiece is some of your best work.

[@missilotze2985]

Teenage me felt completely disconnected from the larger music and pop culture of the mid to late eighties. My high school was awash in metal hair bands, and hip hop. But our little gang of misfits - the drama and music and computer nerds, who read the classics for fun, we gravitated towards the Smiths like moths to flame. HSIN is the generational anthem for the dispossessed. I remember getting it played at the under 21 club, and watching all the cool kids scatter to the wind, as the freaks came out onto the dancefloor to twist and gyrate and sway, independent of each other. Before, it had been all these well dressed popular people dancing in lines to the Humpty Dance ( and other, less memorable stuff) and then they were replaced with all these lone dark figures, geeking out in solitude. Beautiful memory.

[@Scottocaster6668]

Nice! The popular ones will never understand. You guys knew it all along.

[@ThoughtWave64]

Your words…I know you, I’ve been you, I am you.

[@chrisb5823]

This was my experience to a T

[@vintagethrifter2114]

It's ironic that you mention The Humpty Dance because Humpty was just like you. He knew he looked funny and was an outcast but didn't care. The opening lines were "I'm about to ruin the image and the style that you're used to." Humpty danced to his own music and had is own dance moves. He called it the Humpty Dance and didn't care what anyone else had to say.

[@Engelbird]

@@Scottocaster6668 remember: popular is just another word for "common".

[@TheComedyGeek]

That guitar hook.....the way it shimmers over the surface of my mind..... *shiver*

[@shoulderoforion8067]

A beautiful and heartfelt episode about an indie masterpiece, thank you PoR. Like yourself, I was a kid (in England) who grew up on (my older brother's!) classic heavy rock records: Van Halen, Iron Maiden, Blue Oyster Cult, Foreigner, Journey and my all time faves, UFO. Then it was Duran Duran and Simple Minds (alt rock bands fused with electro) and British 'new romantic' outsider music, but it wasn't until I heard The Smiths that I finally knew I wasn't alone in feeling different any more. Exactly as you say, How Soon Is Now gave me a lifeline to realise that there were others like me that felt lonely, different and ignored. We were not the cocky, cheeky lads out on the pull, but sensitive souls hoping to somehow find love. This song spoke to me like nothing had before. I still love all the heavy rock from the classic years, but this song has been a saviour to me throughout my life. Many thanks for putting that gratitude into such articulate words.

[@spuds6423]

UFO, a band that influenced just about every hard rock artist in the 80's and beyond. The boys will be wrapping it up for good in Greece. I just might be there.

[@KingAlveric]

Funny you mention Duran Duran - “New Romantic” was coined from a lyric in “Planet Earth,” off their debut album (1981)… (John Taylor is an amazing funk bassist)

[@dougball4769]

Thank you Adam for the backstory into one of the greatest songs of all time IMO. Timeless classic. I feel this song will still be relevant 100 years after it’s release.

[@FatherAndTeacherTV]

I don't know how to explain this song, but when I heard "How Soon is Now" I had to stop because the music kind of caught me off guard. The lyrics are different, but Morrissey's words and voice just works with the music. Again, I love this KZbin channel.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Thank you for your most loyal support my friend!

[@eponatwospirithorse4980]

I really appreciated this breakdown of a song by a band I never got into. As a result I never heard the lyrics, but understanding them now 36/37 years later, I feel touched by them in a way I was not ready to appreciate back then. So thank you for opening my eyes. Blessings!

[@MyName-pl7zn]

The Smiths should have gotten waaaaay more airplay. This song is an absolute statement for feelings so many us had so many times. A masterpiece! We love you and your work professor, agree with you maybe the most under played and under played bands that influenced alternate music forever.

[@JamesJoyce12]

the Smiths kinda wrote the same song time after time over-and-over again - the fact that they have no current currency now speaks to that - I liked them a great deal when I was younger but now I listen and simply think they are lame

[@tarp11z]

@@JamesJoyce12 Factually, the Smiths are more popular now than they were in the day. They did it with nearly zero airplay. Similarly, Moz himself is in a cultural status which can only be compared to Elvis Presley. In my opinion, Johnny Marr was the greatest guitarist of the 80s. Moz's lyrics are like none other as is his voice. I understand your current disdain for certain music of the past, but you must acknowledge that you've never heard anything like them before or since.

[@MyName-pl7zn]

@@JamesJoyce12 I suppose most bands repeat their styles and sound each time, remember also they were together 5 years most bands sound the same for 5 years

[@JamesJoyce12]

@@tarp11z if you liked them and still like them then have at it - I liked them and can't stand to listen to them now - I also note many films and book written in the last decade make fun of the Smith listeners. If this is sensitive territory - sorry - they totally are the greatest band ever.

[@tarp11z]

@@dudetime8933 Go into Central America and find out how popular Morrissey is. Need I mention the UK? Regarding Elvis, he's great but hardly as great as his longstanding PR campaign (much of it posthumous.). Not all, but many people like Elvis because they're told to. Not so with Moz or the Smiths.

[@Dimonstrik]

One of the few songs that i still remember when, where and how I've heard for the first time... I went to a Depeche Mode party in one of the classic Tel Aviv clubs. Now, before you enter the main hall where a party takes place there were a smaller hall with classic "alternative" 80's songs. I entered the club and How Soon is Now just started to play. I was totally shocked. Can't say this about too many songs. Still one of my all-time favs and always will be.

[@JasonSavorn]

When you rattled off the bands that harmonized with your soul, DM, NO, Cure, I smiled with agreement. And when you spoke of your 💡 moment, I too reflected upon the same truth in my past life; a life that has also been “saved” by music. In the 80’s is was the aforementioned and in the 90’s it was U2,The Cranberries, Elvis Costello, and The Stranglers… if only I could impress upon my children the healing powers of music.

[@ProfessorofRock]

You nailed it! Great bands you listed.

[@JasonSavorn]

@GxV sounding better than ever 👍

[@boromirofmiddleearth557]

key I think is to listen to the album whilst driving, or out walking, just let your kids listen to the whole album. not the videos. the music itself the lyrics.

[@kelst75]

It's still as fresh and hypnotic as first time I heard it decades and decades ago.

[@lizmarch4000]

In the 80s, my older brother would bring home his college music influences. This song was one. I was blessed.

[@77inthehouse]

One of the greatest songs ever recorded. I love this song and always have ever since I heard it for the first time.

[@danellis-jones1591]

Thank you for being so vulnerable. And this is such an amazing track, that calls to my heart even now, at almost 50.

[@EmblemParade]

When this song comes on in an 80s club everybody is on the dance floor mouthing the lyrics and dancing dramatically and we're all so together in our loneliness and, yes, it's our forever anthem.

[@rorororo9430]

The Smiths saved my life as a teen and I still go back to them to lift me when times are hard. Thank you for such an informative, heartfelt and eloquent take on an incredible song. Can you believe I met Mozza when he came to New Zealand. He was gracious and I was a bumbling mess! x

[@mollysreadings4845]

Morrissey is the man. One of my earliest musical memories is hearing "How Soon is Now?" at a friend's house as it randomly came on the radio. From the first note I froze. Writing this I am back in that moment- 1986 Incredible. ❤

[@MrCharlesray]

Traveled 3 hours to see morrisey in 2019, the opening song was HOW SOON IS NOW, and never felt soooo alive! :) the smiths has definitely had a great emotional influence in my life with many of their songs. Love them. Great video mate, I know exactly what you mean to find a song that gives you relief from suffering and brings rest to your heart for the moment you are listening. Great video.

[@yestoadventure007]

I'm 56 years old and I was there man, with you, I was there. The Smiths, The Cure, Depeche Mode, Joy Division/New Order, Siouxsie and the Banshees. I bought the first Smiths album on its debut and it saved me as well. I was there.

[@gerrygleason9340]

I remember when this song first came out and I but the tape at a local import record shop. I would listen to it over and over again with my headphones at night. Morrisey seemed to speak directly to me and my pain in my high school years. Between The Smiths and Joy Division, high school became tolerable, and it started with How Soon Is Now.

[@carlosprieto773]

Wow, still getting goosebumps from this song. Was almost overwhelming to the point that it felt magical as a teenager. This is what music is supposed to feel like with and to every inch of your body and soul!

[@lewiscrow]

Not a Smiths fan, but I LOVE this song. It's the guitar....

[@craigcrawford6595]

Johnny Marr is a great guitarist for sure. .

[@lisaahmari7199]

You don't like Big Mouth Strikes Again? Cracks me up every time I hear it. Both of these guys were dark and poetic yet they each had a wicked sense of humor.

[@davidroll8758]

I'm with you. I love this song but I cannot stand Morrissey, then and even to this day. But I can listen to this song over and over and I know it all comes down to the guitar.

[@markmurphy4616]

Greetings from Ireland, where I was a teenager with this song, and it deserves your praise

[@craigs1266]

I saw the Smiths on The Queen is Dead tour at the Fox theatre in Detroit. The T-shirt I got had the album art printed on white t-shirt. (Phrank opened the show)

[@ProfessorofRock]

Wow! I would give my left arm to see them.

[@ibtaba]

I saw Morrissey in Atlanta in ‘90 at the fox theatre and Phrank also opened then.

[@craigs1266]

12th row, main floor, house left.

[@scarbourgeoisie]

I saw them at the Kingswood Music Theatre, north of Toronto, on that same Queen is Dead tour which I think was back in '86. The new album had been out only a few weeks and I was blown away how the entire crowd knew the lyrics to every new song that was played live that night - word for word. What a great summer '86 was as I saw The Cure at that same venue a few weeks later.

[@viviansprivatekitchen1437]

I had the very same experience when I first found The Smiths. It was as if the wind was knocked out of me and a lightning bolt electrified me from my ears to my head to my heart. No other music has ever spoken to me like The Smiths have.

[@woolgathered]

I have to be in just the right mood to go back and listen to The Smiths at my age now. It’s tough to go back to those teenage years emotionally but I feel like when I’m able to listen to them, it’s like I’m crawling out of a hole again. They were and are still a lifeline to me.

[@scd6969]

Man oh man you got me hooked on your analysis, and took me for a joyride down memory lane. Thank you. I'm with you, bud. I just turned 50 and to this day the Smiths are still forever the greatest band, and the words of Moz rings truer than ever for our generation. Thanks for all the incredible insights you've put into this discussion. 👏

[@brimstonebrimstone8617]

I can remember the first time I heard it and it was unlike anything I had ever heard before - and I grew up with all of the 60s and 70s rock. It spoke to a whole generation - no matter which age group you were in at the time. It seemed like it was the perfect song at the perfect time. That sound, those lyrics, nothing has ever surpassed it or even matched it.

[@dragonsgrrl]

One of the GREATEST tracks by any band in existence. Hands down. It never gets old, overplayed or tired. Still gives me chills every time I hear it. And this song spoke (and still speaks) to me in such a personal way as someone who has always struggled with painful shyness and an overwhelming feeling that I don't belong in social situations because I'm not "good enough". The Smiths were simply one of the best bands out of the 80s, and the soundtrack to a giant part of my kidhood.

[@nononsenseBennett]

THIS is why I keep coming back to this channel. So interesting. So factual. So educational. Keep up the great work.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Much appreciated

[@80sJayOfficial]

There is no doubt that The Smiths helped me immensely in those awkward years. They were the first band I connected with after punk. Moz is highly intelligent, and his lyrics were the perfect fit with Johnny Marr's music. Let's not forget the brilliance of Andy Rourke (RIP), Mike Joyce, Craig Gannon & all their producers.

[@kimberlyvespa]

I stated in my other comment, that I was previously a punk rocker and did not like The Smiths until Louder Than Bombs came out and I REALLY LISTENED to The Smiths and fell in love with their music! 🎶

[@christianhelwig]

I still can't believe this was not on an album. So many great songs were b-sides from the Smiths that were album/single worthy. Thanks for your passion Adam. Especially the 80s New Wave / Alt, etc.

[@luminol]

Meat is Murder 1985

[@seang3019]

It was on the Australian release of Meat is Murder. Rough Trade were notorious for repackaging, reissuing, hence Morrissey's scathing lyrics from Paint a Vulgar Picture: Best of! Most of! Satiate the need Slip them into different sleeves! Buy both, and feel deceived

[@christianhelwig]

@@luminol Depends on what release you have. On the initial release, the US may have been the only one or one of the very, very few that had it.

[@christianhelwig]

@@seang3019 Reissue, repackage, repackage...

[@whichgodofthousandsmeansno5306]

One of those songs that can never be played loud enough. I recall hearing it all the time in clubs back in the day and it sounded so good blasting. Like others have said and I have to agree... it is a masterpiece.

[@brendanfromireland]

I absolutely love the version that Johnny Marr did live with his band on the Jimmy Fallon show.

[@belltown88squid28]

You nailed it. The Smiths deserve much more recognition and appreciation.

[@belltown88squid28]

@@dudetime8933 Huh? Static for the sake of static?

[@charmkenpo]

I absolutely love this song and most of the Smith's other songs. I loved how you seemed so emotionally touched by this song. I have the same feeling. My wife hates the Smiths. She lived an idyllic life with little conflict or negative interactions. I think she doesn't want to experience "bad" thoughts. I, on the other hand, have had more than a few disappointments. It's made me stronger, but How Soon Is Now speaks to me more than any other song I've heard.

[@LaurenOliviArt]

Maybe one day she will be in touch with her dark side. It comes around eventually, and when it does - The Smiths helps you get through!! 😇

[@fizzyplazmuh9024]

As a frustrated and mixed-up teen in the late 80s driving home alone from the bars and clubs back to my lonely rural life was the first time I heard this song. It was winter and I rolled down the window to let the cold in while this song changed me. Fucking awesome. So haunting.

[@gingerbreadorgingerbell1045]

R I P WDRE. That’s where I first heard this sound. The station is gone, Tower Records is mostly gone but that right after college graduation was when my musical tastes exploded.

[@robgesualdi206]

WDRE in Philadelphia?

[@bsprogis]

I agree with most everything you've said. "Asleep" is my goto Smiths song. Same motif , different mood.

[@azmesarc]

Perfect report on a perfect song. Thank you for this.

[@ProfessorofRock]

You're welcome.

[@jsauce666]

I got chills when you listed the 3 tracks.

[@carenhelms8518]

I'm glad The Smiths meant as much to you as they did to me. They appealed to me as soon as I heard this song (also my first from them!). Morrissey's plaintive vocals spoke to me and my adolescent loneliness and feelings of alienation. I agree that The Smiths probably saved many lives!

[@pammoore3447]

It's majestic. Can't think of a better word for this song, and it never fails to give me the tingles every time I listen to it.

[@RobinMarks1313]

I got myself a fake ID and went to the coolest club in town. It was a mix of rock, punk, new wave, dance etc, all in a club with four clubs within the bigger building. My favourite song was How Soon is Now and I always bugged the DJ to play the song. Eventually one week, he finally said, "yes, I'll play the song and I play it every weekend at the end of the night- so, stop bugging me." I then realized he would always play it around midnight and then the music took a dark more punk sound and the smash dancing and the mosh pit began. All the jocks and regular pop dancers would then leave the dance floor because they didn't like the rough play and didn't understand the code. I played hockey, so I took no grief when the jocks got a bit rougher. Then would get bored and leave the dance floor in only a few moments. Then it was loud, angst filled punk for the rest of the night and the "in crowd" left for another bar. Love The Smiths and the club "Gord's" - it's where I lost my musical virginity and popped my cherry.

[@darkstarZ74]

It was featured in the television movie The Midnight Hour from 85 which is on KZbin free. It was used to good effect in that one. Just the guitar riff and that errie sound plays during a party scene highlighting an attack which takes place in slow motion in a wine cellar.

[@sawyerboy13]

The Smiths were my favorite band as well. When I was younger, me and the other outcasts would go to a club. We also went to the James Dean festival one year, it was soon after Morrissey went to the area to film the video for suedehead. We broke into the school where James Dean went. I had an early video camera with me, and filmed some things. Morrissey wrote some things all over the school on some of the blackboard. He wrote "We can't go home again". I'll never forget those days.

[@jaydasrylander3324]

POF - This was your best episode ever, thanks for this. You captured exactly how I felt when I heard this song for the first time.

[@katesjanice]

I'm really a 70s music fan (older than you Prof), but I must say that How Soon is Now is my favorite 80s song.

[@bluewaters3100]

I graduated from High school in 1970 up in Alaska. I relied heavily on record stores , the radio, and my older guy friends who had returned from the Vietnam War. We were lucky to have quite a few teenage clubs with live bands but they just played great songs to either fast or slow dance to. I love to discover new music though which is why I recently subscribed to this channel.

[@hankemery-coffeehousemusic1162]

Adam as always, your interpretation of this song is spot on! It truly is a timeless song and it even speaks to me now.

[@Sashman077]

Your presentation of this absolutely amazing song is truly incredible.

[@edwardmorgan8371]

Love how smiths “sound” is so upbeat but the words are surprisingly dark and introspective. Definitely one of my favorites

[@cindypruitt9534]

This song was so different in the 80s. I admit I was more of a rock chic in the 80s/early 90s even though I love all kinds of music. The Smiths were a little to weird for me at the time. I remember kids who loved them wearing thick black eyeliner and skateboarding at the mall. I really appreciate the Smiths now and realize how great they are.

[@ToddBadger-vp2nr]

As a guitarist, I always loved the heavy reverb/digital delay and flanger of Johnny Marr's playing. I never thought of the harmonizer part which might also be hard to reproduce. I think these days it might be easier to link effect chains rather than amplifiers, but it's whatever works. Iconic 80s.

[@ryancampbell2192]

For literally decades I thought the words were "sun & the air" rather than "son & the heir" but that changed nothing about how this song hits me when I hear it.

[@intentionallyleftblank3016]

Works both ways!

[@RenayOpish]

Wait- I am just seeing this now. 😂

[@frydaze13]

I always thought it was superbly written lyrics that could be interpreted both ways

[@notthatjohnwatson1813]

So Love The Smiths. I was on a camping trip with 2 friends and all they played was Strangeways Here We Come that weekend. I knew every song by Monday. Had another friend that let me borrow the tape (yes cassette tape lol) of The Queen is Dead. I was Totally hooked after that. Was devastated to learn they had already broken up when I got into them my Junior year of High School. I couldn’t wait to get off from my job just to listen to them. They spoke to me in a way no band at the time did. Marrs guitar and Moz’s lyrics and falsettos were amazing. This band helped me through my teenage years and I felt I wasn’t alone anymore in the thoughts and feelings I had. Thanks PoF great video

[@TesterAnimal1]

Strangeways. One word. It’s the name of a grim northern prison. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/HM_Prison_Manchester

[@notthatjohnwatson1813]

@@TesterAnimal1 fixed now. That’s great though. I never knew that’s what it was so thx for telling me!! 🤜🏼🤛🏼

[@michaelfrazia4569]

this riff and she sells sanctuary by the cult were so ahead of their time .they are both among my favorite riffs of all time

[@be3825]

Well, Johnny and Billy have a very long history of being best friends. So, there's that.

[@michaelfrazia4569]

@@be3825 those 2 riffs to me always sounded way ahead of their time..like late 90s era