Noted for his work as a guitarist and songwriter for The Smiths, contributing to their distinctive jangly sound and co-writing several songs with Morrissey.
Craig Gannon, the enigmatic English guitarist, is synonymous with The Smiths, one of the most influential bands of the 1980s. Gannon's brief yet significant tenure as the band's second guitarist in 1986 left an indelible mark on their music, earning him the moniker "The Fifth Smith."
Gannon's entrance into The Smiths came about when bassist Andy Rourke was briefly fired, prompting Morrissey and Marr to recruit Gannon as his replacement. However, Rourke's reinstatement led to Gannon's shift to rhythm guitar, making him the official fifth member of the band.
During his time with The Smiths, Gannon played on the iconic singles "Panic" and "Ask," as well as the scrapped single "You Just Haven't Earned It Yet, Baby," which appeared on The World Won't Listen compilation album. He toured extensively with the band, sharing the stage with them in the UK, Canada, and the US.
After parting ways with The Smiths, Gannon went on to collaborate with Brix Smith in The Adult Net and Blue Orchids. His relationship with Morrissey remained amicable, with Gannon contributing to Morrissey's debut solo gig and singles "The Last of the Famous International Playboys" and "Interesting Drug" in 1989.
However, Gannon also took Morrissey and Johnny Marr to court that same year, citing non-payment of wages and disputes over songwriting credits, particularly with regards to "Ask." The matter was settled out of court for £44,000, including £30,000 in unpaid wages and £14,000 in legal costs.
In the following years, Gannon pursued a career as a composer, creating music for film and television. His credits include the score for the Inside The Smiths DVD, released in collaboration with Mike Joyce and Andy Rourke, as well as the classic albums DVD of The Queen Is Dead, which debuted in 2008.
Gannon was also part of the initial lineup of Black Grape in the mid-1990s, further solidifying his reputation as a versatile and accomplished musician.
Craig Gannon's contributions to The Smiths, though brief, have left an enduring impact on their music and legacy. His involvement in some of the band's most iconic tracks has ensured his place as an unsung hero of The Smiths' oeuvre.
As a composer and musician, Gannon continues to carve out his own distinct path, leaving behind a trail of inspired and eclectic works that defy categorization.
In the end, Craig Gannon's multifaceted career serves as a testament to his innovative spirit and dedication to his craft, cementing his place as a pioneering figure in the realm of alternative rock.
67 Years Old
Iconic frontman of The Smiths, known for poetic lyrics and distinctive vocals that captured the angst and melancholy of 1980s British youth.
62 Years Old
Iconic guitarist and songwriter behind The Smiths' distinctive sound and influential solo work, shaping indie rock and Britpop.
79 Years Old
A British pop icon of the 1960s, known for her powerful, soulful voice and iconic barefoot performances, winning the Eurovision Song Contest in 1967.
59 Years Old
A legendary Britpop icon, he co-founded Oasis, penning hits like "Wonderwall" and "Champagne Supernova", shaping the 90s music scene with his songwriting and guitar work.
