Morrissey’s catalogue spans two distinct phases: his groundbreaking work with The Smiths and a prolific solo career marked by change and defiance. This guide breaks down Morrissey’s albums in order, highlighting key releases from both periods and what they reveal about his evolving sound and outlook.

The Smiths Era: 1984–1987

The Smiths redefined 1980s indie rock, blending jangly guitar with sharply observed lyrics. Morrissey's songwriting, paired with Johnny Marr's guitar work, produced four studio albums that still resonate.

• The Smiths (1984)
  Debut album featuring tracks like “Reel Around the Fountain” and “What Difference Does It Make?”. A raw introduction to Morrissey’s themes of alienation and wit.
• Meat Is Murder (1985)
  Introduced overt political commentary with songs like “The Headmaster Ritual”. The title track remains one of Morrissey's most divisive statements.
• The Queen Is Dead (1986)
  Critically acclaimed, with standouts including “Bigmouth Strikes Again” and “There Is a Light That Never Goes Out”. Often cited as The Smiths’ best work.
• Strangeways, Here We Come (1987)
  The final Smiths album showed a more refined sound. “Last Night I Dreamt That Somebody Loved Me” hints at Morrissey’s solo style.

View The Smiths Tube Map for a unique visual timeline of their discography.

Solo Career: 1988 Onwards

After The Smiths disbanded, Morrissey launched a solo career that struck a balance between pop appeal and pointed social commentary.

• Viva Hate (1988)
  Debut solo album with “Suedehead” and “Everyday Is Like Sunday”—a strong start, blending vulnerability with lyrical barbs.
• Kill Uncle (1991)
  Less critically embraced, but contains fan favourites like “Our Frank”.
• Your Arsenal (1992)
  Produced by Mick Ronson, it marked a heavier sound. “We Hate It When Our Friends Become Successful” became a defining track.
• Vauxhall and I (1994)
  Widely seen as a highlight, with lush arrangements and introspective lyrics. “The More You Ignore Me, the Closer I Get” stands out.

See the Morrissey Solo Albums Map for a detailed look at these years.

Comebacks and Reinvention: 2004–2020

• You Are the Quarry (2004)
  After a long break, Morrissey returned with renewed energy. “First of the Gang to Die” became a live staple.
• Years of Refusal (2009)
  Blunt and emotional, with “I’m Throwing My Arms Around Paris” among the standout tracks.
• World Peace Is None of Your Business (2014)
  Combines experimental production with political themes.
• I Am Not a Dog on a Chain (2020)
  His most recent studio release pushes against expectation and convention.

Why Morrissey’s Albums Still Matter

Morrissey’s longevity comes down to a few key factors:

• Emotional honesty – Whether he’s singing about personal sorrow or social frustration, his words resonate with listeners.
• Distinctive voice – Both literally and creatively, Morrissey’s style is unmistakable and polarising in equal measure.
• Visual storytelling – His discography is uniquely captured in tube map form through my artwork, which charts every release, collaboration and musician.

If you’re exploring Morrissey’s albums for the first time or rediscovering old favourites, my Smiths & Morrissey music map offers a fresh perspective on a complex and enduring catalogue.