Andy Burnham plays The Smiths with soldiers Johnny Marr reacts
When Prime Minister Andy Burnham recently spent time in Ukraine, he didn’t just tour the battlefields; he brought a piece of British music with him. He covered The Smiths on guitar, a moment that sparked a fascinating conversation between politics, history, and the sheer, undeniable power of music.
The reaction from musician Johnny Marr, one of the band’s most celebrated figures, was anything but reserved. He described the experience as an almost spiritual moment, feeling it was a victory for the guitar itself. For Marr, witnessing such a grand artistic statement amidst geopolitical complexity seemed to offer a profound, if overwhelming, perspective on his own place in the world.
“I just sort of go, ‘How great is the guitar?’ What an amazing tool the guitar is,” Marr reflected. He admitted that processing the gesture felt beyond him, but the sheer magnificence of the moment—the confluence of art and global events—was palpable.
This reflection resonated deeply with Burnham’s own appreciation for the music industry. Burnham has long championed the importance of culture, famously calling The Smiths’ 1984 compilation Hatful Of Hollow “the record that changed everything,” cementing the band’s status as an enduring cultural touchstone.
Burnham’s focus on supporting the arts extends beyond personal enjoyment. As Prime Minister, he has pushed for tangible changes to ensure the music ecosystem thrives. He announced plans to cut business rates for music venues and clubs across England, aiming to give these vital spaces breathing room, funded by reviewing tax reliefs given to other industries.
This commitment to grassroots music is further demonstrated by his support for initiatives like Coldplay’s decision to implement a ticket levy, and the general pressure placed on politicians to address the post-Brexit touring crisis and fight against ticket touts.
The music industry continues to grapple with complex issues. High-profile artists, including Thom Yorke, Robert Smith, and members of Massive Attack, have voiced their concerns over controversial developments, pushing the government to halt projects like the proposed Rosebank oil field in the North Sea.
Burnham’s vision aims to strengthen the foundations of the UK music scene. He helped confirm the return of the Manchester festival Beyond The Music in 2026, underscoring a belief in nurturing new artists and ensuring that grassroots venues and talent development systems receive the necessary support.
In the meantime, the music world remains vibrant. Johnny Marr himself has recently released new material, including the single “It’s Time,” for his upcoming album The Age Of Everything, continuing his journey as an influential voice in contemporary music.
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