The Queen Is Dead

album by the Smiths

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July 16, 2026

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The Queen Is Dead is the third studio album by the British rock band the Smiths, released in 1986. It is considered by many critics to be their most perfect balance of private angst and public anger. The album features songs like "The Boy with the Thorn in His Side" and "There Is a Light That Never Goes Out."1

The Smiths were a highly influential English band of the 1980s, known for their unique blend of alternative rock, folk, and punk influences. The band consisted of lead singer Morrissey, guitarist Johnny Marr, bassist Andy Rourke, and drummer Mike Joyce. The Smiths disbanded in 1987 due to internal disagreements and frustration over their singles not reaching the top 10.12

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the Smiths
Albums and break-up
” After 1986’s The Queen Is Dead, their most perfect balance of private angst and public anger, the Smiths—frustrated at the failure of their singles to hit the top 10—abandoned Rough Trade for the marketing muscle of the major label EMI (in the United States they remained with…
Read More
” After 1986’s The Queen Is Dead, their most perfect balance of private angst and public anger, the Smiths—frustrated at the failure of their singles to hit the top 10—abandoned Rough Trade for the marketing muscle of the major label EMI (in the United States they remained with…
Read More