Mike Bell's Tube Maps Blog Posts

As a lifelong music enthusiast and freelance designer, I've found a unique way to express my passion for both fields. I transform the rich, complex histories of renowned bands into intricate, data-driven visual narratives...

When reminiscing about the timeless sound of The Smiths, the limelight invariably hones in on the lyrical virtuosity of Morrissey and the elegant guitar work of Johnny Marr. Yet, it is essential to recognize the immense talent of Andy Rourke, their bass guitarist, whose contribution to the band's success is often overshadowed, but is equally significant. With his recent passing, here are some thoughts about his contribution to The Smiths. Andrew Michael Rourke, more popularly known as Andy Rourke, was born on January 17, 1964, in Manchester, England. Rourke’s journey with The Smiths began when he and childhood friend Johnny...

Introduction to The Fall - A Band of Many Players: A Journey Through Musical Brilliance Emerging in the late 1970s, during the blossoming of the punk rock scene, The Fall has carved a unique and indelible niche in the annals of music history. Known for their distinctive sound and their constant evolution, The Fall stands as a testament to the transformative power of creativity and artistic integrity. Their journey, marked by numerous lineup changes and a vast, influential discography, paints a picture of a band that was much more than the sum of its many parts. The Fall was formed...

At MikeBellMaps, we've crafted a unique intersection of music and data visualization. By transforming the discographies of iconic bands and artists into stunning London tube maps, we offer a fresh, dynamic perspective on the world of music. Every line, intersection, and stop tells a story, creating a visual symphony that artfully narrates the musical journey of beloved artists. Translating Music into Maps Visualizing music through the lens of a tube map may seem unconventional, but therein lies the beauty. Each line on our tube map represents an artistic journey - perhaps a particular album or a defining era in an...

As we embark on this voyage through time, we unravel the narratives of Back to the Future, exploring the characters, themes, and cultural impact that have made this film an enduring classic. Through this journey, we are not just revisiting a piece of cinematic history; we are also exploring the timeless human themes of destiny, personal growth, and the enduring power of love and friendship...