BBC HomeExplore the BBC
This page was last updated in August 2007We've left it here for reference.More information


Accessibility help
Text only
BBC Homepage

Contact Us

Like this page?
Send it to a friend!
 

The Smiths perform on TOTP

24 November 1983

This was The Smiths' first appearance on television and they immediately made a mark with their unique blend of classic British rock and guitar pop. Poking fun at the Top Of The Pops protocol of mimed songs, Morrissey sang into a bouquet of gladioli and gave one of the most joyous, camp performances of the decade. Not wanting to lose touch with their indie roots, the band left the TOTP studio that night and jumped on the train to Manchester where they performed to a heaving crowd at the Hacienda night club.

Related Pages

 

I was there

  • John Peel & Tommy Vance

    DJs and presenters

    Presented that episode of TOTP.

  • John Porter

    Producer

    Produced The Smiths.

What The World Is Waiting For - Indie 1980-2007

The story of British indie, beginning with The Smiths, the archetypal indie group.

 

Have Your Say

Disclaimer: The BBC will put up as many of your comments as possible but we cannot guarantee that all e-mails will be published. The BBC reserves the right to edit comments that are published.

  • martinvonduckworth
    Having just seen the programme on indie, I could have sworn that the TOTP presenters for the Smiths' debut were Simon Bates and Richard Skinner.Or maybe my eyes are going.

    Ant, York
    another one.....legends

    Sara, Hampshire
    one word...iconic



About the BBC | Help | Terms of Use | Privacy & Cookies Policy