Music fans in Salford are being invited to step inside the untold story of The Smiths as a unique book launch event comes to Salford Lads & Girls Club on Wednesday 11 June.
It’s Time The Tale Were Told – A People’s History of The Smiths brings together the memories, photographs and experiences of more than 500 fans, offering a deeply personal portrait of one of Britain’s most influential indie bands. From intimate early club gigs to their final performance at London’s Brixton Academy, the book captures the band’s journey through the eyes of those who were there.
Written by Manchester-based authors Iain Key and Richard Houghton, the book explores the legacy of a band built on the iconic songwriting partnership of Morrissey and Johnny Marr. Their 1985 album Meat Is Murder famously reached number one in the UK charts, while their other studio albums all peaked at number two before the band’s split in 1987.
The Salford event will give fans the chance to hear directly from both authors during a live Q&A, offering further insight into the stories behind the book and the cultural impact of The Smiths. Organisers say the evening has been designed as a celebration rather than a traditional book launch, with a mini makers market and live performances from local musicians also planned.
Richard Houghton, Managing Director of Spenwood Books, is known for creating the “People’s History” series and has written more than 20 books on music, including fan histories of major acts such as Jethro Tull, Simple Minds and Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark.
Co-author Iain Key is a familiar figure in Manchester’s music scene, having been active since the late 1980s and 90s. In recent years, he has written extensively for Louder Than War, producing more than 600 articles alongside hosting weekly radio shows focused on emerging and established artists.
With its deep ties to The Smiths’ history and global recognition among fans, Salford Lads & Girls Club provides a fitting backdrop for an evening dedicated to the people who helped shape the band’s legacy.
Tickets for the event are available now via Eventbrite.
