Morrissey, the enigmatic former frontman of The Smiths, has voiced frustrations over his lack of recent musical releases, attributing the situation not to creative stagnation but to what he describes as a suppression of "free speech." During a 20-song set in Newark, New Jersey, on November 13, Morrissey shared his grievances with the audience, claiming that his outspoken nature has led to a blacklisting by the music industry.
Morrissey’s Claims on Free Speech
The singer pointed to a perceived erosion of free expression in his home country of England as a major issue. He remarked:
“You cannot speak freely in England. If you don’t believe me, go there. Express an opinion, you’ll be sent to prison. It’s very, very difficult.”
His comments seem to reflect the backlash he has faced in recent years, particularly following his controversial alignment with the far-right For Britain political party. Morrissey suggested that his vocal advocacy for free speech has played a significant role in the reluctance of labels to release his music.
The Fate of Morrissey’s Albums
Morrissey has not released a studio album since 2020’s I Am Not a Dog on a Chain, but he claims that the delay in new releases is due to industry roadblocks rather than a lack of material:
Bonfire of Teenagers:
- The album, reportedly completed in mid-2021, was initially slated for a February 2023 release.
- It featured collaborations with Miley Cyrus, Iggy Pop, and members of the Red Hot Chili Peppers, with Andrew Watt as producer.
- However, Capitol Records postponed its release, and Morrissey accused the label of potentially sabotaging the project.
- Miley Cyrus also requested her vocals be removed from the record, adding to the album’s complications.
Without Music the World Dies:
- Morrissey claims to have completed another album following Bonfire of Teenagers.
- Despite offering the project to record labels and private investors, it remains unreleased, leaving the fate of both albums uncertain.
Morrissey’s Perspective on the Industry
Morrissey has been vocal about his dissatisfaction with Universal Music Group and Capitol Records. In a statement, he suggested that his diverse musical style might have contributed to his struggles with industry support:
“Although he does not believe that Capitol Records in Los Angeles signed Bonfire of Teenagers in order to sabotage it, he is quickly coming around to that belief.”
These remarks echo a broader narrative from the artist, who has frequently lamented being misunderstood or sidelined due to his controversial opinions and unwillingness to conform.
Fan Reactions and Industry Implications
Morrissey’s fans remain divided over his remarks. While some sympathize with his claims of industry suppression and celebrate his artistry, others question whether his outspoken political views have alienated him from potential collaborators and labels.
The ongoing saga surrounding Bonfire of Teenagers and Without Music the World Dies highlights the complexities of Morrissey’s career in recent years. With his extensive legacy in music, many hope that his unreleased works will eventually see the light of day. For now, Morrissey continues to perform live and voice his perspective, keeping his artistry and controversies in the public eye.
Green’s Soulful Interpretation
Al Green's take on "Everybody Hurts" reinvents the alternative rock classic with a full band arrangement, featuring strings and backing vocalists that amplify the emotional resonance of the song. In a statement shared on social media, Green expressed his connection to the track:
“Recording ‘Everybody Hurts,’ I could really feel the heaviness of the song and I wanted to inject a little touch of hope and light into it. There’s always a presence of light that can break through those times of darkness.”
This approach aligns perfectly with Green’s illustrious career, where his soulful delivery has often served as a beacon of warmth and encouragement for listeners.
A History of “Everybody Hurts”
The song originally appeared on R.E.M.’s 1992 album Automatic for the People and became a standout hit. Upon its release as a single in 1993, it resonated with audiences worldwide, earning acclaim for its compassionate message and charting success:
- Billboard Hot 100: Peaked at No. 29
- Pop Airplay Chart: Reached No. 13
Beyond its chart performance, "Everybody Hurts" has taken on a life of its own, frequently used in charitable campaigns. Notable examples include:
- Samaritans (UK): Promoted its use to raise awareness for mental health.
- Helping Haiti Fund (2010): A star-studded cover featuring artists like Mariah Carey, Miley Cyrus, and Jon Bon Jovi supported relief efforts for the Haiti earthquake, later charting on the Bubbling Under Hot 100 at No. 21.
However, the song hasn’t been without controversy. In 2019, former President Donald Trump used the track in a montage during his State of the Union address, prompting R.E.M. to publicly denounce the unauthorized usage and successfully have the clip removed from Twitter.
Al Green’s Recent Musical Endeavors
Green’s cover of "Everybody Hurts" continues his recent trend of reimagining beloved classics:
- 2022: Covered Lou Reed’s "Perfect Day".
- 2018: Released a rendition of Freddy Fender’s "Before the Next Teardrop Falls"—his first new music in a decade.
Green’s last studio album, Lay It Down (2008), remains a high point in his career, peaking at No. 9 on the Billboard 200 and solidifying his legacy as one of soul’s enduring icons.
Fan and Critical Reception
The release has sparked excitement among fans and critics alike, many praising Green for his ability to breathe new life into a modern classic. His soulful interpretation of "Everybody Hurts" is a testament to the song’s universal appeal, as well as Green’s unparalleled ability to connect with audiences on a deeply emotional level.
Conclusion
Al Green’s rendition of R.E.M.’s "Everybody Hurts" serves as both a tribute to the original and a soulful reimagining that underscores the timelessness of its message. With this cover, Green continues to bridge the gap between genres and generations, proving that his artistry remains as vibrant as ever.
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