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Mike Joyce Releases Memoir 'The Drums,' Reflects on The Smiths and Distance From Morrissey

Joyce's account prioritizes the lived reality of the band, underscoring a decades-long estrangement from its frontman.

Overview

  • Joyce publishes The Drums, focusing on his years inside The Smiths and largely setting aside the later royalties litigation.
  • He recalls Morrissey’s detachment during the band’s peak and says Johnny Marr often served as a conduit between the singer and the rest of the group.
  • Joyce says he has not spoken directly to Morrissey since 1992 and describes them as very different people.
  • He notes Morrissey’s September move to offer his Smiths business interests for sale and expresses doubt about any reunion, citing recent public exchanges between Marr and Morrissey.
  • Reflecting on loss and legacy, Joyce mentions reconnecting civilly with Marr after Andy Rourke’s 2023 death and stresses the music’s enduring influence.