Andy Rourke has denied being involved in the newly-announced ‘Classically Smiths’ concert series.

The series, which is set to showcase a classical re-imagining of the music of The Smiths, had initially been billed as featuring former Smiths drummer Mike Joyce, bassist Rourke and second guitarist Craig Gannon. The three were set to be joined by the Manchester Camerata Orchestra for shows in London, Manchester, and Edinburgh before setting out on a full UK tour.

However, Rourke has now denied his involvement in the ‘Classically Smiths’ series. In a statement provided to NME, Rourke said that he was “deeply saddened” that “false statements” had been made on his behalf.


“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.”

Reps for Rourke added: “At no point in time did Andy Rourke agree to participate or otherwise license or authorise the use of his name, likeness or any personal quotes in any manner in connection with this Classically Smiths project. The parties involved were advised of this on multiple occasions prior to them going to press. A press conference and press release were scheduled and serviced to the media without Andy Rourke’s or his team’s knowledge or approval.

“Any quotes by Andy Rourke that were attributed in any press materials in regards to the Classically Smiths project were not provided, authorised or otherwise approved by him or his representatives.”

Songs expected to be in line for an orchestral twist include ‘The Boy With The Thorn In His Side’, ‘A Rush And A Push And The Land Is Ours’ and ‘Please, Please, Please Let Me Get What I Want’.


The confirmed dates can be seen below.

JUNE 28 – MANCHESTER, O2 APOLLO

JUNE 29 – LONDON, O2 ACADEMY, BRIXTON

JULY 2 – EDINBURGH, USHER HALL

Additional reporting by Sam Moore