The Smyths

Here’s event page content for The Smyths at O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire, London, on Saturday, 24 January 2026:

---

The Smyths Live at O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire, London

About the Event

Prepare for an unforgettable evening as The Smyths, the world’s premier tribute to the legendary The Smiths, grace the iconic stage of the O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire in London on Saturday, 24 January 2026. This is more than just a tribute; it’s a meticulously crafted homage that captures the very essence of Morrissey’s poetic melancholia and Johnny Marr’s shimmering guitar artistry. For dedicated fans and curious newcomers alike, this concert offers a rare opportunity to relive the magic and enduring appeal of one of Britain’s most influential bands, brought to life with an unparalleled level of authenticity and passion. The O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire, a venue steeped in musical history, provides the perfect atmospheric backdrop for an evening dedicated to the timeless soundscapes and poignant lyricism that defined a generation.

About The Smyths

The Smyths have carved out a formidable reputation as the definitive tribute to The Smiths, transcending the typical boundaries of tribute acts to deliver a performance that is both respectful and exhilarating. Formed with a shared passion for the Manchester four-piece, the band meticulously recreates the sound, look, and, most importantly, the feeling of a classic Smiths concert. Their dedication to detail is evident in every aspect of their show, from the precise instrumentation to the uncanny vocal nuances that echo Morrissey’s distinctive delivery.

Over their extensive career, The Smyths have toured extensively, playing to sold-out crowds across the UK and beyond. They are renowned for their ability to capture the raw emotion and understated brilliance that made The Smiths so beloved. Their setlists are a carefully curated journey through the band’s celebrated catalogue, ensuring that all the beloved anthems and hidden gems are celebrated. Audiences can expect to hear the jangly guitar riffs of Johnny Marr, delivered with impeccable skill, underpinning the profound and often witty lyrical observations of Morrissey, masterfully channelled by their lead singer.

Notable hits that are guaranteed to feature in their electrifying set include the anthemic “There Is a Light That Never Goes Out,” a quintessential Smiths ballad that speaks to devotion and eternal love. The infectious energy of “This Charming Man,” with its iconic Rickenbacker guitar intro, never fails to ignite the dancefloor. Equally essential are the brooding intensity of “How Soon Is Now?”, with its distinctive tremolo guitar, and the wry observations of “Heaven Knows I’m Miserable Now.” Tracks like “Girlfriend in a Coma,” “William, It Was Really Nothing,” and the deeply moving “I Know It’s Over” showcase the band’s versatility and their ability to evoke a wide spectrum of human emotion, from despair to defiant joy. The Smyths don’t just play the songs; they embody the spirit of The Smiths, offering a faithful and deeply affecting concert experience that resonates with the heart and soul of every fan.

Venue Information

The O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire is a legendary live music venue nestled in the heart of West London. Housed in a stunning Edwardian building, it boasts a rich history of hosting some of the most celebrated artists in music, from rock royalty to emerging talents. Its intimate yet spacious interior, with its distinctive tiered seating and standing areas, offers excellent sightlines and acoustics, ensuring a fantastic experience for every attendee. The venue’s vibrant atmosphere and its commitment to showcasing diverse musical genres make it a cherished destination for music lovers in the capital. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare yourself for an evening that authentically channels the spirit and sound of The Smiths. The Smyths are celebrated for their commitment to reproducing the sonic landscape of the original band with remarkable accuracy. Expect the signature jangly, arpeggiated guitar work of Johnny Marr, delivered with a sparkle and precision that is truly breathtaking. The driving rhythm section will underpin the performance with the solid, often understated, yet crucial basslines and drumming that formed the backbone of The Smiths’ sound.

Lyrically and vocally, the lead singer of The Smyths is a master of capturing the unique intonation, melancholic charm, and theatrical delivery of Morrissey. You’ll find yourself transported by the poignant poetry and sardonic wit that made Morrissey’s lyrics so iconic. The performance style is one of deep respect and passionate emulation; The Smyths understand that the magic of The Smiths lies not just in the notes, but in the emotional weight and the intellectual depth of their music.

The setlist is carefully crafted to be a comprehensive exploration of The Smiths’ career, encompassing their most beloved singles alongside cherished album tracks and fan favourites. While the exact setlist is always a delightful surprise, you can be sure to hear the essential anthems that have soundtracked countless lives. Expect soaring renditions of “There Is a Light That Never Goes Out,” guaranteed to have the entire venue singing along. The infectious energy of “This Charming Man” will undoubtedly get everyone on their feet, while the brooding intensity of “How Soon Is Now?” will create a palpable atmosphere of sonic texture. Prepare for the poignant beauty of “I Know It’s Over” and the wry social commentary of “Heaven Knows I’m Miserable Now.” The band’s ability to transition seamlessly between the upbeat and the introspective ensures a dynamic and engaging show. The overall duration of the performance will typically be around two hours, including an interval, allowing ample time for a full immersion into the world of The Smiths.

FAQs

Q1: How closely do The Smyths replicate the original sound of The Smiths? The Smyths are widely recognised for their exceptional attention to detail in recreating the authentic sound of The Smiths. They meticulously study and replicate the instrumentation, vocal inflections, and overall sonic textures that defined the band. From Johnny Marr’s iconic guitar riffs and melodic interplay to Morrissey’s distinctive vocal style and lyrical delivery, The Smyths aim for an uncanny resemblance that honours the original.

Q2: Will The Smyths play all the big hits, or will they focus on album tracks? The Smyths strive to provide a balanced setlist that appeals to both casual listeners and dedicated fans. You can absolutely expect to hear all the seminal hits like “There Is a Light That Never Goes Out,” “This Charming Man,” “How Soon Is Now?,” and “Heaven Knows I’m Miserable Now.” Alongside these anthems, they also incorporate well-loved album tracks and fan favourites, offering a comprehensive journey through The Smiths’ celebrated discography.

Q3: Is the lead singer of The Smyths trying to imitate Morrissey, or is it more of an interpretation? The lead singer’s approach is one of deep admiration and skilful emulation, rather than a mere imitation. They capture the essence of Morrissey’s unique vocal delivery, his melancholic tone, his theatricality, and his sardonic wit. The aim is to evoke the feeling and spirit of Morrissey’s performance while delivering a genuine and passionate rendition of the songs.

Q4: What kind of atmosphere can I expect at a Smyths concert? The atmosphere at a Smyths concert is typically electric, filled with a shared sense of nostalgia and appreciation for The Smiths’ music. Fans often describe it as being transported back in time to the heyday of the band. Expect passionate singalongs, a palpable emotional connection to the music, and a lively, yet respectful, audience that deeply understands and loves The Smiths.

Q5: Are The Smyths considered a “tribute band” or something more? While technically a tribute band, The Smyths are often regarded as being at the pinnacle of their genre. They go beyond simple impersonation, focusing on a profound understanding and authentic re-creation of the musical and emotional integrity of The Smiths. Their extensive touring and critical acclaim suggest they offer an experience that resonates deeply with the legacy of the original band, often being described as the closest you can get to seeing The Smiths live.

Q6: What is the typical duration of a Smyths performance? A typical performance by The Smyths, including an interval, usually lasts for approximately two hours. This allows them to showcase a comprehensive selection of songs from The Smiths’ catalogue, ensuring a full and satisfying concert experience for all attendees.

---