It’s Time The Tale Were Told - A People’s History of The Smiths

Join us at the iconic Salford Lads & Girls Club, right in the heart of Salford, for an evening celebrating the launch of a new book by Iain Key & Richard Houghton, followed by a live Q&A. The night will feature a mini makers market, live local music, and of course, the chance to hear directly from Iain Key and Richard Houghton in this unique setting.

It’s Time The Tale Were Told – A People’s History of The Smiths is the story of one of the UK’s most influential indie bands in the words of over 500 fans.

From memories of their earliest club shows through to the last ever gig at London’s Brixton Academy, this is a portrait of The Smiths as painted by the fans.With personal photographs, memorabilia, anecdotes and first-hand accounts of more than 100 gigs, readers will get a front row view of the indie music legends.Based on the songwriting partnership of Morrissey and Marr, The Smiths’ 1985 album Meat Is M**der topped the UK album charts, and their other three studio albums reached No 2.

The band broke up in 1987 and turned down all invitations to reunite.Richard Houghton lives in Manchester and is the Managing Director of Spenwood Books. He created the People’s History series and is the author of more than 20 books on music, including authorised fan histories of Jethro Tull, Simple Minds, Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark, The Stranglers, Shaun Ryder, Fairport Convention and The Wedding Present.

Iain Key is a recognisable face on the Manchester Music Scene from many years in the late ’80s and ’90s. Iain rediscovered his love of writing about music during the pandemic which saw him invited to join the team at Louder Than War. Since late 2020, he’s written over 600 pieces including music, book and gig reviews, and also produced weekly music shows for the last 5 years focussing on new music and interviews with new and established acts.

Info: Browse our mini makers market and take the opportunity to connect with local creatives

Info: Experience a live set from John Denton

Info: Join Iain Key & Richard Houghton for an exclusive insight into his new book, followed by a Q&A session where you can ask questions and hear more about his work.

Info: Experience a live set with John Denton

Info: Browse our mini makers Market and take the opportunity to connect with local creatives.

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