The Smiths

In March 1984, The Smiths were riding high on the wave of their debut album, 'The Smiths,' which was released just a year earlier, in 1983. The performance of 'Still Ill' on 'The Tube' at City Road Studios in Newcastle is a snapshot of their burgeoning popularity and artistic growth. It was a time when Morrissey's distinctive lyrical prowess and Johnny Marr’s jangly guitar work were capturing the hearts of fans. Interestingly, during this period, the band was also garnering attention for their refusal to conform to traditional pop norms, often tackling themes of isolation and yearning. This live recording brilliantly encapsulates the raw energy and emotional depth that they brought to their performances, solidifying their legacy as one of the most influential bands of the 1980s.

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