The Best Smiths Songs capture the essence of a band that blends introspective lyrics with memorable, jangly guitar riffs.
Known for their wit, vulnerability, and unique style, The Smiths carved out a sound that resonates deeply with listeners even today.
Each track delves into themes of love, alienation, and social observation, setting them apart as storytellers of their generation.
Their music balances melancholic depth with melodic charm, creating songs that are both haunting and uplifting.
This post explores the essential Smiths songs that define their legacy, celebrating the tracks that continue to inspire and connect across decades.
1. “Girlfriend in a Coma” – Perfect Song By Smiths (1987)
About this song:
- Album: Strangeways, Here We Come
- Released: 1987
- Artist: The Smiths
- Genre: Alternative rock, indie pop, reggae
- Key Lyric: “Girlfriend in a coma, I know. I know, it’s serious.”
“Girlfriend in a Coma” released in 1987, offers a blend of dark humor and melancholy, a style unique to The Smiths.
Morrissey’s lyrics explore complex emotions, juxtaposing morbid humor with a haunting sense of vulnerability.
Composed by Marr, the song features reggae-inspired rhythms that add a lightness to the otherwise somber theme.
The track reflects The Smiths’ knack for combining irony with introspection, creating a lasting impression on listeners.
Appearing on Strangeways, Here We Come, stands as a memorable example of the band’s distinctive voice.
2. “I Know It’s Over” – Best Song By Smiths (1986)
About this song:
- Album: The Queen Is Dead
- Released: 1986
- Artist: The Smiths
- Genre: Alternative rock, Alternative/Indie, Pop, Rock, Folk
- Key Lyric: “I know it’s over, still I cling. I don’t know where else I can go.”
“I Know It’s Over” is a profound ballad that explores themes of heartbreak and existential despair.
Written by Morrissey and released in 1986, the song portrays feelings of loss and loneliness with an emotional depth that resonates universally.
Its stripped-down arrangement emphasizes Morrissey’s haunting vocal performance, bringing the lyrics to life.
The song, featured on The Queen Is Dead, captures the melancholy essence of The Smiths and their ability to convey raw vulnerability.
“I Know It’s Over” remains a powerful expression of emotional turmoil and one of the band’s most cherished songs.
3. “This Charming Man” – Recommended Song By Smiths (1983)
About this song:
- Album: The Smiths
- Released: 1983
- Artist: The Smiths
- Genre: Indie pop, jangle pop
- Key Lyric: “Ah, a jumped-up pantry boy. Who never knew his place.”
Released in 1983, “This Charming Man” captures the essence of The Smiths’ early sound with jangly guitars and catchy lyrics.
Johnny Marr’s guitar riffs create a bright, energetic feel that contrasts with Morrissey’s introspective lyrics.
The song addresses themes of class and social struggle, using poetic storytelling to depict a sense of displacement.
One of their early hits, “This Charming Man” helped establish The Smiths’ presence in the indie music scene.
The track’s upbeat tempo and clever lyrics have made it a timeless favorite among fans of the band.
4. “I Started Something I Couldn’t Finish” – Awesome Song By Smiths (1987)
About this song:
- Album: Strangeways, Here We Come
- Released: 1987
- Artist: The Smiths
- Genre: Alternative rock, glam rock
- Key Lyric: “I started something. I forced you to a zone.”
“I Started Something I Couldn’t Finish,” released in 1987, dives into themes of regret and unfulfilled ambition.
The song features a bold glam-rock influence, with Marr’s guitar adding a sense of urgency to the narrative.
Morrissey’s lyrics reflect an internal struggle, portraying both defiance and vulnerability, a classic trait of his style.
Appearing on Strangeways, Here We Come, this track highlights The Smiths’ ability to tackle complex emotions within their music.
It remains a testament to the band’s skill in balancing raw emotion with dynamic instrumentation.
5. “How Soon Is Now?” – Remarkable Song By Smiths (1984)
About this song:
- Album: Hatful of Hollow
- Released: 1984
- Artist: The Smiths
- Genre: Alternative rock, psychedelia
- Key Lyric: “You shut your mouth, how can you say. I go about things the wrong way?.”
Released in 1984, “How Soon Is Now?” stands out for its moody atmosphere and hypnotic guitar work by Johnny Marr.
The song’s introspective lyrics reflect themes of isolation and self-doubt, resonating with those who feel misunderstood.
Marr’s distinctive slide guitar and reverb effects lend a psychedelic vibe, setting it apart from the band’s usual sound.
The track’s haunting tone and poetic storytelling have made it a lasting favorite, defining The Smiths’ darker side.
“How Soon Is Now?” continues to be celebrated as one of the band’s most iconic and influential songs.
6. “Ask” – Stunning Song By Smiths (1986)
About this song:
- Album: The World Won’t Listen
- Released: 1986
- Artist: The Smiths
- Genre: Alternative rock, indie pop, jangle pop
- Key Lyric: “Ask me, ask me, ask me. Because if it’s not love.”
“Ask,” released in 1986, brings a bright, upbeat sound that contrasts with Morrissey’s usual somber themes.
The song encourages listeners to embrace life and take chances, delivered with lighthearted lyrics that remain memorable.
Johnny Marr’s jangly guitar work adds a playful vibe, giving the track an optimistic tone that sets it apart.
“Ask” became an anthem of curiosity and exploration, resonating with fans who connected with its positive energy.
Appearing on The World Won’t Listen, it stands as one of the band’s more cheerful and endearing songs.
7. “The Boy with the Thorn in His Side” – Excellent Song By Smiths (1986)
About this song:
- Album: The Queen Is Dead
- Released: 1986
- Artist: The Smiths
- Genre: Alternative rock, indie pop
- Key Lyric: “The boy with the thorn in his side. Behind the hatred there lies.”
In “The Boy with the Thorn in His Side,” The Smiths explore the struggle of feeling misunderstood and unseen.
Morrissey’s lyrics offer a glimpse into the frustrations of fame and public perception, delivered with poetic melancholy.
The song has a whimsical melody, complemented by Marr’s soft, flowing guitar that adds an ethereal quality.
Appearing on The Queen Is Dead, it’s a standout for its emotional resonance and deeply personal message.
This track captures the complexities of vulnerability, giving voice to the internal battles many can relate to.
8. “Shakespeare’s Sister” – Wonderful Song By Smiths (1985)
About this song:
- Album: Louder Than Bombs
- Released: 1985
- Artist: The Smiths
- Genre: Rockabilly
- Key Lyric: “Oh, I can smile about it now but at the time, it was terrible. No, Mamma, let me go.”
“Shakespeare’s Sister” is a lively and rebellious track that combines Morrissey’s wit with Marr’s punchy guitar riffs.
Inspired by Virginia Woolf’s concept of Shakespeare’s imagined sister, the song touches on themes of freedom and constraint.
The rockabilly influence gives it a raw energy, making it one of the band’s more distinctive and experimental pieces.
Included in Louder Than Bombs, it’s a song that captures The Smiths’ flair for literary references and sharp social commentary.
The track has a unique charm, reflecting both defiance and a desire for personal agency.
9. “Heaven Knows I’m Miserable Now” – Ideal Song By Smiths (1984)
About this song:
- Album: Hatful of Hollow
- Released: 1984
- Artist: The Smiths
- Genre: Alternative rock, jangle pop
- Key Lyric: “In my life, why do I give valuable time. To people who don’t care.”
“Heaven Knows I’m Miserable Now” became a quintessential anthem of discontent and introspection for The Smiths.
The song’s ironic title and lyrics capture Morrissey’s unique ability to transform personal dissatisfaction into relatable art.
With Marr’s jangly guitar and melancholic melodies, it’s a song that speaks to feelings of alienation and reflection.
Released on Hatful of Hollow, it embodies the band’s approach to addressing everyday struggles with humor and poignancy.
Its lasting appeal lies in its honesty, making it a favorite among fans who connect with its introspective nature.
10. “Panic” – Amazing Song By Smiths (1987)
About this song:
- Album: The World Won’t Listen
- Released: 1987
- Artist: The Smiths
- Genre: Alternative rock, glam rock
- Key Lyric: “Burn down the disco. Hang the blessed DJ.”
“Panic” is a bold, satirical response to the cultural disconnect Morrissey felt within mainstream music.
With its memorable refrain “Hang the DJ,” the song critiques the repetitive and impersonal nature of popular music.
Inspired by a news report, Morrissey and Marr crafted a tune that pairs urgency with the simplicity of a glam-rock beat.
The song’s chorus became a rallying cry for fans disillusioned by pop music’s lack of substance.
Included in The World Won’t Listen, “Panic” remains a sharp commentary on music culture, capturing The Smiths’ rebellious spirit.
Conclusion
Reflecting on the Best Smiths Songs reveals the timeless appeal and emotional depth that make their music unforgettable.
From Morrissey’s poignant lyrics to Marr’s iconic guitar work, each song is crafted to resonate on multiple levels.
Their songs capture universal emotions, inviting listeners to feel understood and inspired.
The Smiths’ influence remains strong, with their music continuing to inspire new generations.
Revisiting these classic tracks is a reminder of why The Smiths are celebrated as one of the most influential bands in rock history.