Legendary guitarist Johnny Marr, best known for his work with The Smiths, has disclosed a surprising detail about his musical origins: his very first guitar was taken by none other than actor Kevin Kennedy, famous for his role as Curly Watts in the long-running ITV soap opera, Coronation Street. Marr, a pivotal figure in British music, shared the anecdote, adding that he bears no grudge against Kennedy.
The revelation came as a light-hearted admission from Marr, who stated, "But that's all right, he's a nice fella." Both Marr and Kennedy hail from Manchester, and it appears the incident occurred during their younger years, long before either achieved widespread fame in their respective fields. While the exact circumstances of the guitar's disappearance remain vague, Marr's good-natured recounting suggests it was a youthful escapade rather than a malicious act.
Marr's musical journey began at an early age, leading him to co-found The Smiths in 1982, a band that would go on to define a generation of British music with hits like 'This Charming Man' and 'There Is a Light That Never Goes Out'. His distinctive guitar playing style has influenced countless musicians globally. Meanwhile, Kevin Kennedy joined Coronation Street in 1983, portraying the beloved character Norman 'Curly' Watts for two decades, becoming a household name across the UK.
The story offers a glimpse into the unexpected intersections of lives before celebrity, highlighting the shared social fabric of a city that has produced significant talent in both music and television. It underscores the humble beginnings of two individuals who would go on to leave lasting impacts on British popular culture. The guitar, an instrument often imbued with sentimental value, serves as a curious link between their parallel paths to fame.
For fans of The Smiths and Coronation Street alike, the tale provides a charming piece of trivia, connecting two seemingly disparate worlds through a shared, albeit unusual, history. It reinforces the idea that even the most celebrated figures have ordinary, sometimes humorous, backstories that predate their public personas.