Johnny Marr draws line in sand with It’s Time
Johnny Marr is back, not just with a fresh wave of guitar riffs, but with a manifesto for navigating the murky waters of modern life. His latest offering, “It’s Time,” serves up a widescreen, guitar-driven protest song that tackles the pervasive temptation toward cynicism and corruption.
The track, which has premiered on BBC Radio 2’s Breakfast Show, is more than just a catchy tune; it’s a rallying cry. Marr describes the song as a way of singing about worldly issues while finding defiance in idealism. The lyrical core urges listeners to ‘change the weather and breaking it,’ demanding mobilization to discover the truth: ‘Everybody ain’t making it, open eyes to know the truth.’ It’s a sharp, witty, and necessary challenge aimed squarely at those with questionable perspectives.
The sound of “It’s Time” perfectly captures this spirit of rebellion. It follows earlier tracks like “Spin” and “Ophelia,” setting the stage for what promises to be his forthcoming fifth solo album, The Age of Everything, due out on October 2nd.
The creation of this new material was deeply rooted in Marr’s creative process. The ten cuts on the album were conceived in London, developed across North America, and ultimately recorded in Manchester, weaving a sound that is uniquely his—a perfect blend of London sensibility and Manchester grit.
To bring the song to life, Marr paired the music with powerful visuals. The accompanying live-shot video captures the energy of his biggest solo headline show to date—a sold-out homecoming performance at Manchester’s Castlefield Bowl in July. This footage places the protest song firmly within a context of exuberant, raw live performance.
Beyond the music itself, the artistic journey surrounding Marr is rich with history. Ahead of the album’s release, the guitarist’s legacy is being celebrated through various retrospective events, including an exhibition of Marr’s Guitars: The Johnny Marr Collection at Christie’s in London. Further marking his continued legacy, an expanded 10th-anniversary edition of his autobiography, Set the Boy Free, will be published, featuring archival photographs and new tributes.
“It’s Time” acts as a powerful testament to Marr’s enduring voice, blending his signature melodic genius with a timely, defiant message. It reminds us that even amidst the noise of the world, there is always room for idealism, truth, and a healthy dose of defiant energy.
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