Morrissey, singer for The Passage and what could have been …

Supposedly, Morrissey tried out for the position of singer for the Manchester band The Passage. But vocalist Lizzy Johnson was chosen instead.


'As we were spineless about singing we once auditioned a bunch of hopefuls, including a certain Steve Morrissey, who we thought a bit too glum for the likes of us. But this explains gorgeous Lizzy Johnson's presence on Devils and Angels.'

The Passage | Biography | LTM Recordings

Manchester new wave group The Passage were fronted by Dick Witts and recorded for Object Music and Cherry Red

www.ltmrecordings.com

Just imagine, Morrissey could have had quite a different life if he was chosen, and may have possibly sang on this single … the 1981 …






Musically, it’s a far cry from The New York Dolls and the 60’s girl groups that inspired him and Marr. What I find interesting is that this seems to have taken place in 1980/81, which adds some credence to my speculation that Morrissey had much more drive during that time, pre-Smiths, then he or others have led us to believe. If Marr never came around, of course both of them wouldn’t be who they are today, but I do believe there was the possibility that Morrissey would have eventually found some band to express his vision through. Even in obscurity, I believe he would have made and left his unique mark.

Thanks to @goinghome and @DaveC for the link and pointing out this bit of information.

 

[goinghome]

to be fair, they needed each other.

Thanks for reading the full LTM profile attentively, ZoG, when I was short of time, and spotting that quote; something new, I think : )

 

[Sooner Than You Think]

Better look next time Moz! Although, I wouldn't have thought he'd need to audition for bands at this point in his career. Never mind, perhaps Johnny will take him back...

 

[Paul Andrews]

Pre or post The Nosebleeds, didn't Moz also try out for The Worst - a Manchester also ran Punk band? He was tight for a while with Woody from the band. Often seen at gigs together at The Squat on Oxford Road and The Ranch on Dale Street. Steve Shy who had a fanzine at the time, may also have been involved along with Art Kadmon who was in The Distractions and was friends with Linder.