On Friday, January 19, former Smiths drummer Mike Joyce posted an image with his name next to bassist Andy Rourke and second guitarist Craig Gannon, along with the words “Summer 2018.” Earlier today, it was reported that Joyce, Rourke, and Gannon will embark on a concert series called “Classically Smiths.” Andy Rourke has now denied his involvement in the project. In an email to Pitchfork, a representative for Rourke writes, “Andy Rourke was never officially confirmed to take part in, license or authorize the use of his name for the Classically Smiths concert. The production company [Bad Production Ltd.] had hoped Andy Rourke would be a part of the project, but at no time was it approved by Andy Rourke or his team.”

Bad Production Ltd.’s press release also included a quote attributed to Andy Rourke (“To have been there the first time round and seen it first hand, and to still be such a big fan of The Smiths today, I am both thrilled and excited to be involved in Classically Smiths. I’m really proud of the band’s work, and being able to present those songs again in this particular production format promises to be a real gift for audiences everywhere.”). Rourke’s rep tells Pitchfork: “Any quotes by Andy Rourke regarding this project are 100% fabricated and without approval.”

Rourke himself has also issued the following statement:

I am deeply saddened that during the week of the death of my dear friend Dolores O'Riordan, that false statements are made on my behalf. At no time did I give my consent for anyone in connection with this Classically Smiths project to act on my behalf or my name and nothing was ever confirmed, approved or contracted by me or my team.

Pitchfork has contacted representatives for Bad Production Ltd. and Mike Joyce for comment and more information.