A new plaque has been unveiled in Manchester, celebrating legendary guitarist and songwriter Johnny Marr as a “record store legend.”
The honour recognizes the 61-year-old musician’s unwavering support for independent record shops around the world. Installed at Piccadilly Records—one of Manchester’s most iconic music stores—the tribute comes as part of a joint initiative by Record Store Day US and UK.
The title was first introduced in 2017, with Sir Elton John as the inaugural recipient, and now Marr joins that exclusive list, being recognised not only for his musical achievements but also for his dedication to preserving record store culture.
Johnny Marr, who co-founded the seminal rock band The Smiths in 1982 just a few streets away from Piccadilly Records, described the moment as humbling. “It’s a very nice thing to be associated with,” he said, standing beside the plaque. “I’ve known the staff at Piccadilly Records for over 20 years, and to have something like this, in this city, at this store—it really means something.”
Marr reminisced about his early days as a young musician in Manchester, often finding inspiration inside the walls of independent music shops. “There’s just something magical about the presence of a record store. It’s not just about buying music—it’s about discovering something new, being part of a community.”
Reflecting on the broader cultural role of these spaces, Marr warned against underestimating their importance. “If they were to completely disappear, the high street or the city centre would be a much worse-off place,” he said.
“Going to a record store isn’t just a transaction—it’s a pastime, an experience. It’s a place where you find soundtracks for your life.” His words echo the sentiments of many music lovers and collectors who see record shops as vital cultural institutions, offering a sense of nostalgia and discovery that digital platforms can’t replicate.
Andy McQueen of Piccadilly Records expressed how meaningful the tribute was for the staff and patrons alike. “Johnny’s our favourite living artist,” McQueen said warmly. “His music has soundtracked our lives for over 40 years. To be associated with him in this beautiful way—well, the pleasure, the privilege, is ours.”
With that emotional nod, McQueen also paid homage to Marr’s legacy through a clever twist on lyrics from The Smiths, subtly acknowledging the deep connection the band’s music continues to hold for Manchester and beyond.
To coincide with the upcoming Record Store Day celebration on April 12, 2025, Marr will release a special edition of his live album Look Out Live!, recorded during his 2024 performance at London’s Hammersmith Apollo.
Record Store Day, which brings together nearly 300 independent record shops across the UK, is described as “the one day of the year when these unique spaces come together to celebrate their culture.” Artists often release limited editions and exclusive pressings, and Marr’s contribution is expected to be a major highlight of this year’s event.
Johnny Marr’s musical legacy began in earnest when he and fellow Mancunian Morrissey formed The Smiths in 1982, alongside bassist Andy Rourke and drummer Mike Joyce. The band quickly became one of the most influential of their time, with hits like Bigmouth Strikes Again, This Charming Man, and There Is a Light That Never Goes Out capturing a generation’s angst and identity.
Despite the band’s success, Marr left The Smiths in 1987 to pursue other musical ventures, marking the end of an era but the beginning of a remarkably diverse solo journey.
Since then, Marr has collaborated with a wide range of artists and genres, proving his versatility and relevance across decades. He has worked with American alt-rock band Modest Mouse, pop icons like the Pet Shop Boys and Billie Eilish, and contributed to projects with Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds.
He’s even teamed up with acclaimed film composer Hans Zimmer. In 2024, following the buzz around an Oasis reunion, Marr revealed he had turned down offers to reform The Smiths, staying true to his artistic convictions.
His plaque at Piccadilly Records is not just a nod to past glories—it is a recognition of a man who continues to champion music, community, and creativity.
