Morrissey is amongst the most provocative and controversial performers in popular music. From the formation of his Manchester band The Smiths in 1982 on through to the release of his acclaimed 2009 solo album Years of Refusal, his career has spanned 50 UK top 40 singles and 20 UK Top 10 albums. This bestselling biography gets behind the public image to tell Morrissey's story in the man's own words and explores in detail the extraordinary lyrical content of the songs. It also celebrates the many artists Morrissey has elevated to iconic status - via the lyrics of Smiths' covers, including Cilla Black, Dusty Springfield, Billy Fury, Marc Bolan, and the New York Dolls.