An Intimate Evening with Mike Joyce: The Drums of The Smiths
Music enthusiasts and fans of iconic 1980s indie rock are in for a treat as Mike Joyce, the renowned drummer of The Smiths, embarks on a book tour for his new memoir, The Drums. The tour includes a special event at The Hub at St Marys in Lichfield, Staffordshire, offering a rare opportunity to hear firsthand stories from one of the band's key members.
A Legendary Band's Legacy
Formed in 1982 and disbanding in 1987, The Smiths left an indelible mark on the music world. With all five of their studio albums reaching the top five in the UK charts, they are celebrated as one of the most influential bands of all time. Mike Joyce's memoir, The Drums, delves into this legacy from a deeply personal angle, moving beyond well-documented milestones to capture the essence of his experience.
An Open-Hearted Narrative
In The Drums, Joyce provides an open-hearted and witty account of his years with the band. He reflects on the question, "Where did it all go right?"—a phrase he often shared with bassist Andy Rourke, with whom he had a profound and special relationship. Rather than a straightforward retelling, Joyce's book conveys the "feeling" of being part of The Smiths, recontextualising familiar stories with vulnerable, human insight.
Joyce explains his motivation: "I've been asked numerous times, 'What was it like being in The Smiths?' On most occasions, my answer's been, 'Have you got a couple of days to spare?' It felt like going into detail to explain what it was really like would be impossible. The only way to do that would be to commit to paper. It's been quite a journey going back 40 years to re-live some of the experiences encountered during my time with the band. I hope readers feel I've answered that question."
Event Highlights and Insights
At The Hub, Joyce will share stories from his memoir in conversation with Daniel Rachel, promising an engaging and insightful evening. Anthony Evans, The Hub's creative director, commented: "The Smiths were one of the most influential bands of the 1980s. Now's your chance to have an inside view." This event is set to resonate with millions of Smiths fans, celebrating the band's impact on lives and subsequent musicians.
Joyce's memoir is described as honest, entertaining, and deeply human, offering a perspective from someone who considers himself the biggest Smiths fan in the world. It's a must-read for anyone interested in the inner workings of a cultural phenomenon.
Practical Details for Attendees
For those planning to attend, here are the key event details:
- Title: The Drums: Mike Joyce – Book Tour
- Date: Saturday, March 28
- Time: 8pm
- Tickets: £16
- Location: The Hub at St Marys, Lichfield, Staffordshire
Tickets can be booked online via the venue's website or purchased in person at The Hub. Don't miss this unique opportunity to gain an insider's perspective on one of music's most legendary bands.
