Morrissey, born Steven Patrick Morrissey in 1959 in Davyhulme, England, formed the English rock band The Smiths in Manchester in 1982 with guitarist Johnny Marr, bassist Andy Rourke, and drummer Mike Joyce. The band's sound combined Marr's intricate guitar melodies with Morrissey's baritone vocals and lyrics addressing working-class themes, sexuality, and disillusionment, drawing from punk, indie rock, and 1960s pop. They released their debut album The Smiths in 1984, followed by Meat Is Murder (1985), The Queen Is Dead (1986), and Strangeways, Here We Come (1987), achieving success on the UK charts before disbanding after Marr's departure. Morrissey launched a solo career in 1988 with the album Viva Hate, featuring guitarist Vini Reilly, and continued releasing records including Kill Uncle (1991) and Your Arsenal (1992). His solo work maintained a style rooted in rock and glam influences. Live, Morrissey performances are known for his dramatic stage presence, theatrical gestures, and audience engagement through shirtless reveals and direct addresses.