On 19 May 2023, the tragic news broke that after a long battle with pancreatic cancer, Andy Rourke, the pioneering bass player for The Smiths, had passed away. As part of the legendary Mancunian foursome, Andy Rourke created a soundscape which changed the course of music for not just a generation, but for popular culture the world over, and now there’s a mural in the works to commemorate his life.
Andy’s unique style, combining funk rhythms and driving urgency, form the distinctive framework for The Smiths’ songbook, and his self-effacing sense of humour and laid back personality complemented the indisputable impact of his creative genius.
So, why a mural? With fans the world over often citing that The Smiths played a significant role in their lives, it seems appropriate that Rourke’s legacy be celebrated in a creative way in his home city of Manchester, which can be viewed for decades to come.
The mural, in partnership with the charity, Pancreatic Cancer Action, will be brought to life by world-renowned street artist Akse, with a striking image credited to The Smiths’ 1985/1986 UK/USA tour photographer, Nalinee Darmrong, who has kindly given her blessing to the project. The photo was taken at the Caird Hall in Dundee in 1985.
The mural will be officially unveiled in November – Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month – at a special celebration (details to be announced at a later date), and it will stand proud on the side of the Wheatsheaf pub in the Northern Quarter.
Mike Joyce, drummer with The Smiths, who initiated the project and fundraiser, said: “Thanks to this Crowdfunder, fans of Andy and The Smiths can contribute to a permanent memorial in his and the band’s hometown of Manchester, but also increase awareness of this debilitating disease and raise money for the charity Pancreatic Cancer Action.
“The mural will not only serve as a permanent tribute to Andy’s legacy as a brilliant musician but also as a memory of the funniest, sweetest lad I had the pleasure of knowing. Many thanks, Mike.”
Donations will go directly towards the creation of this artwork, covering essential expenses such as artist fees, materials, scissor lift hire, permits, and other associated costs including the production, packaging, and shipping of prints.
International fans of Andy Rourke and The Smiths can also donate, and the amount will be converted by your bank. All prints will be signed by Akse P19 and Mike Joyce, and all funds raised above the target of £15,500 will be donated to the charity Pancreatic Cancer Action.
You can donate to the cause here.
📍 The Andy Rourke mural will be located on The Wheatsheaf, 30 Oak St, Manchester M4 5JE.