When you think about fan girls these days, some names which most likely come to mind are One Direction, Justin Bieber, and Taylor Swift. The girls who go wild for these performers are often young, sparkly, and peppy. However, there is one man who has a fan base full of girls who are much more mature, more dark, more…sad. And his name is Morrissey.
Moz, as he’s often referred to, first earned fame as the frontman for British band The Smiths, active from 1982-87. He charmed his way into the hearts of many with songs like “There Is A Light That Never Goes Out,” “How Soon Is Now?,” and (my personal favorite) “Cemetery Gates.” Yes, to die by Morrissey’s side would truly be a heavenly way to die.
Upon disintegration of the Smiths, Moz began his solo career with album Viva Hate which hit number one upon release. His solo career, save for a hiatus between 1998 and 2003, has been strong ever since.
More recently, popular blogging site Tumblr has been flooded with young women (much more-so than men) expressing their love and dedication to the British demi-God. Personally, I appreciate Morrissey. He’s a fantastic performer and puts out quality stuff (which is SO HARD to find these days), but I’m afraid I don’t possess the intense passion that some have toward him. So, I set out on a quest to find out why these sad girls love him so damn much. Here are some of the answers I received, and stop me if you think you’ve heard these ones before:
- “He’s a babe who’s rlly sad just like me :-)”
Of course! Camaraderie is one of the most valuable things to have when you’re sad. It definitely takes the edge off of the feels.
- “90% of his lyrics are relatable.”
Again, camaraderie. Isn’t that why most people listen to music? Like, 80% of the time it’s to feel less alone. Unless you’re a party girl who listens to LMFAO to get pumped for a night of getting blackout drunk with your friends while wearing neon spandex. But everyone knows being a party girl and being a sad girl are mutually exclusive.
- “Listening to Moz makes it okay to feel alone.”
When you feel sad, you feel alone. Those are two feelings which almost always go hand-in-hand. “Alone” has such a negative connotation these days, what with everyone shacking up and shagging each other (not that there’s anything wrong with that…) But it’s important to remember that being alone is something that is completely okay- even something that’s beautiful!
- “He always speaks his mind.”
In “Irish Blood, English Heart,” Moz sings, “I’ve been dreaming of a time when/ The English are sick to death of Labour/ And Tories, and spit upon the name of Oliver Cromwell/ And denounce this royal line that still salute him/ And will salute him forever” Damn, that’s some harsh stuff! Not a lot of people criticize the Windsors like that, at least not that we in America hear of. But speaking one’s mind, especially concerning political matters, is something we can all appreciate.
- “His love for animals”
Moz has always been very public about his vegetarianism, addressing the subject with The Smiths’ 1985 album and song Meat Is Murder. Even recently, he backed out of a February performance on Jimmy Kimmel after finding out that the cast of A&E’s Duck Dynasty would be guests the same night. Morrissey stated that he “can’t take the risk of being on a show alongside people who, in effect, amount to serial animal killers.” Again, you don’t have to be a sad girl to appreciate a true animal lover (and defender!)
- “His fascination with death, without the intention of suicide”
No doubt, death is a morbid topic. And with aforementioned hits “There Is A Light That Never Goes Out” and “Cemetery Gates,” it’s one that Moz is completely comfortable singing about. Contrary to many artists who touch on death, though (Blink 182 à la “Adam’s Song”, anyone?), Moz has no intention of killing himself and, instead, paints death in a light of fascination rather than fear. And remember, “sad” is not synonymous with “suicidal.”
- “His wonderful soft voice”
This one’s self-explanatory. Every sound that comes out of that man’s mouth is as smooth as silk.
- “He’s damn handsome.”
Again, self-explanatory. Moz is probs the sexiest 53-year-old around.
- “His passion”
As evidences in reason 5, Moz has passion for animals. Not only that, he also obviously has passion for his music, and he’s even called other celebs out on being more interested in fame than their actual work. Plus, have you ever noticed how passionate people are often associated with sadness? Look at Van Gogh!
- “He’s never said anything degrading toward women.”
What girl wants to hear “Bitches Ain’t Shit” when she’s sad?! NO GIRL.
So there you have it- some insight into why sad girls love Morrissey. Actually, these are all reasons why everyone should love Moz. And, let’s be real here, he’s 53 years old and still tours routinely. Sad girls crave that kind of stability.
Check back next time for Why Insecure Girls Love Lana del Rey.
Special thanks to isay-no.tumblr.com and ballerinaposesgetyounowhere.tumblr.com for their participation!
