Morrissey Purchases the Rights Back for Two Albums After “Bloody War” With Capitol Records

Starting his career back in the 1970s, Morrissey eventually found himself in the spotlight when he joined the rock band the Smiths. Although only active in the band from 1982 to 1987, the singer didn’t leave the stage as he pursued a prosperous solo career. Releasing several albums throughout the decades, Morrissey entered a legal battle with Capitol Records after his newest album Bonfire of Teenagers never released. Now, it appears that Morrissey took matters into his own hands, purchasing the rights back for two of his albums.

Table of Contents

• Update on Capitol Records Battle
• Bonfire of Teenagers Controversy
• Collaborations on Bonfire of Teenagers
• Future Plans and Concerts

Update on Capitol Records Battle

Sharing an update about his fight with Capitol Records, Morrissey paid the exit fee to regain the rights to his albums. He expressed relief after a long legal battle and remains unsigned.

Bonfire of Teenagers Controversy

Capitol Records had scheduled a release for Bonfire of Teenagers in 2023, but the album never saw the light of day after Morrissey withdrew his association with the label. The singer faced challenges, including a collaboration with Miley Cyrus that didn’t come to fruition.

Collaborations on Bonfire of Teenagers

Despite setbacks, Bonfire of Teenagers features collaborations with Iggy Pop and the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Morrissey expressed his frustration over the delay in releasing the album, citing personal significance and the timeliness of the music.

Future Plans and Concerts

With the albums back in his possession, fans eagerly anticipate Morrissey’s next moves. The singer hinted at special concerts to promote the re-release of his 1993 live album Beethoven Was Deaf, scheduled for July.

Read more about Morrissey’s journey on American Songwriter.

Read More About Morrissey

Morrissey is a highly influential figure in the world of music, known primarily for his work as the lead singer and lyricist of the iconic British band The Smiths, as well as for his successful solo career. Born Steven Patrick Morrissey on May 22, 1959 in Manchester, England, Morrissey quickly made a name for himself with his distinctive voice, emotional lyrics, and unique stage presence. His music has been described as a mix of indie rock, post-punk, and new wave, and his lyrics have been praised for their intelligence, wit, and insightful commentary on society and the human experience.

One of the defining characteristics of Morrissey’s music is his distinctive vocal style, which has been compared to that of artists such as David Bowie and Leonard Cohen. His emotionally-charged delivery and powerful vocal range have garnered him a devoted fanbase and critical acclaim. In addition to his vocal talents, Morrissey is also a skilled lyricist, known for his clever wordplay, poetic imagery, and poignant reflections on themes such as love, alienation, and identity.

Morrissey’s music with The Smiths, formed in 1982 with guitarist Johnny Marr, bassist Andy Rourke, and drummer Mike Joyce, quickly gained a cult following and critical acclaim. The band released four critically acclaimed albums between 1984 and 1987, including classics such as “The Queen is Dead” and “Meat is Murder”. Their combination of Marr’s jangly guitar riffs and Morrissey’s introspective lyrics struck a chord with listeners, and The Smiths are widely considered one of the most influential bands of the 1980s.

After The Smiths disbanded in 1987, Morrissey embarked on a successful solo career, releasing a string of acclaimed albums such as “Viva Hate” and “Your Arsenal”. His solo work continued to showcase his distinctive vocals and insightful lyrics, and he quickly established himself as a respected solo artist. Morrissey’s solo career has seen him experiment with different musical styles, from rockabilly to electronica, while still retaining his signature sound and lyrical themes.

In addition to his musical talents, Morrissey is also known for his outspoken and controversial opinions on a variety of topics, including politics, animal rights, and social issues. He has been a vocal advocate for animal rights, and has spoken out against practices such as factory farming and animal testing. Morrissey’s strong opinions have sometimes landed him in hot water, but they have also earned him praise for his willingness to speak out on issues that are important to him.

Despite his occasionally controversial public persona, Morrissey’s music continues to resonate with listeners around the world. His introspective lyrics and powerful vocals have earned him a devoted fanbase, and he remains a fixture in the music scene decades after his career began. Morrissey’s influence can be seen in a wide range of artists, from indie rock bands to mainstream pop stars, and his impact on the music industry is undeniable.

Morrissey is a truly unique and influential figure in the world of music. His distinctive voice, insightful lyrics, and powerful stage presence have cemented his status as a musical icon, and his influence continues to be felt across genres and generations. Whether as the frontman of The Smiths or as a successful solo artist, Morrissey’s impact on the music industry is undeniable, and his place in music history is secure.