In a new blog post titled, “A SOUL FOR SALE,” Morrissey has announced he is selling his entire stake in The Smiths, including the band’s name, artwork, merchandising, songs, recordings, sync rights, and publishing. Morrissey cites exhaustion from the ongoing conflicts with his former bandmates Johnny Marr, Andy Rourke, and Mike Joyce, and a desire to distance himself from the longstanding animosity. “I am burnt out by any and all connections to Marr, Rourke, Joyce. I have had enough of malicious associations,” Morrissey wrote, while adding, “I would now like to live disassociated from those who wish me nothing but ill-will and destruction, and this is the only resolution.” Morrissey then takes credit for the Smiths’ music by claiming, “The songs are me — they are no one else — but they bring with them business communications that go to excessive lengths to create as much dread and spite year after year. I must now protect myself, especially my health.” Morrissey encourages “any serious investors” to email him, while he prepares to embark on a solo North American tour. (Consequence of Sound)
