As Morrissey turns 67, it feels only right to look back at the solo songs that helped him step out from The Smiths’ shadow and become one of British music’s most unmistakable voices. Because being miserable, poetic and difficult can become a full career path. Fair play.
10. First of the Gang to Die
One of Morrissey’s most accessible solo tracks. Big chorus, sharp storytelling and enough drama to make a three-minute song feel like a tragic short film.
9. Irish Blood, English Heart
Punchy, direct and one of his strongest later-career singles. It showed Morrissey could still sound urgent, rather than simply moaning beautifully into the void.
8. The More You Ignore Me, the Closer I Get
A classic Morrissey title before you even hear the song. Smart, obsessive, melodic and instantly memorable.
7. Alma Matters
A bold, confident solo anthem with one of his best choruses. Proper “I’m still here” energy, which is impressive for someone who often sounds like he’d rather not be.
6. You Have Killed Me
Elegant, dramatic and oddly addictive. This is Morrissey in full theatrical mode, which is basically his natural habitat.
5. Interesting Drug
Bright, jangly and full of frustration. It has that classic Morrissey mix of catchiness and complaint, because heaven forbid joy arrives unaccompanied.
4. Tomorrow
One of his most powerful vocal performances. Emotional, grand and slightly haunting, it shows just how strong his solo work could be.
3. Speedway
A darker, heavier standout from Vauxhall and I. Brooding, intense and brilliant, like Morrissey decided subtlety was taking the day off.
2. Suedehead
His debut solo single, and still one of his finest. It proved immediately that Morrissey could survive beyond The Smiths, which must have been annoying for anyone hoping otherwise.
1. Everyday Is Like Sunday
The definitive Morrissey solo song. Bleak, beautiful, witty and strangely comforting, it captures everything people love about him: loneliness, melody, drama and a chorus that refuses to leave your head.
At 67, Morrissey’s solo catalogue remains packed with sharp writing, unforgettable hooks and just enough melancholy.
James Waddingham
Collaborator, BritRock Heaven
