In a surprising development, Morrissey has ceased the use of an email address previously set up to entertain offers for his rights to the Smiths’ music. This decision was revealed through a post on his official website. Despite his enduring love for the songs, Morrissey expressed his frustration with the business intricacies that accompany his involvement with the band.
A statement on his website outlined: “The ‘eaves’ business email address has been switched off due to the colossal response to Morrissey’s announcement of his wish to pass his ‘Smiths’ interests over to an investor. Although Morrissey’s love for the songs of the Smiths era will never waver, he is tired of the disagreeable and vexatious characters involved in ‘The Smiths’ business.”
Continuing, the post added, “After thirty-eight years of insults and abuse, Morrissey has had enough. All (or most) of the ‘eaves’ emails will be answered in time.”
Last week, announcements on Morrissey Central and his Instagram declared his intent to divest his business interests in the Smiths. It remains unclear if Morrissey authored these posts. Representatives for him have not returned requests for comment. The announcements, titled “A Soul for Sale,” included a quote from Morrissey, expressing his desire to distance himself from former bandmates, citing exhaustion from the continued associations. Attempts to reach out via the provided email were unsuccessful, as it bounced back when contacted by Rolling Stone.
The rights available include “full and exclusive rights” to the Smiths’ name, all related artwork, merchandising, songs, synchronization rights, recordings, and publishing contracts.
“I am burnt out by any and all connections to [Former Smiths members Johnny] Marr, [Andy] Rourke, [Mike] Joyce. I have had enough of malicious associations. With my entire life I have paid my rightful dues to these songs and these images,” Morrissey stated. “I would now like to live disassociated from those who wish me nothing but ill-will and destruction, and this is the only resolution.”
Estranged Relationships and Legal Disputes
The Smiths disbanded in 1987, with Morrissey and Marr maintaining a strained relationship. Last year, Marr mentioned declining an offer from AEG Entertainment Group to reunite with Morrissey. Although a 2008 meeting hinted at a possible reunion, it quickly dissipated, as Marr soon departed for a tour, leading to the communication breakdown.
Drummer Mike Joyce remains estranged from Morrissey and Marr following a contentious lawsuit in 1996 over royalties. With the death of bassist Andy Rourke in 2023, any chance of a formal reunion vanished.
Despite the legacy of their music, disputes have overshadowed any potential reconciliation. “The songs are me – they are no one else,” Morrissey noted, highlighting how related business dealings have become a source of distress. Amid ongoing tensions, Morrissey prioritizes his well-being over continued controversies.
