Crowdfunder launched for mural honouring The Smiths’ Andy Rourke

The Smiths’ Mike Joyce has launched a crowdfunding campaign for a mural honouring his late band-mate Andy Rourke.

The bassist passed away in May 2023, following a long battle with pancreatic cancer. He had been an integral part of the Manchester band’s soundscape, which continues to hugely influence modern guitar music.

At the time, Morrissey had shared his tribute, writing: “He didn’t ever know his own power, and nothing that he played had been played by someone else. His distinction was so terrific and unconventional and he proved it could be done… I suppose, at the end of it all, we hope to feel that we were valued. Andy need not worry about that.”

Now, Joyce has set up a Crowfunder page for the mural in memory of the late bassist, with the funds going directly to the creation of the mural, while any money raised beyond the campaign’s £15,500 target will go towards the Pancreatic Cancer Action.

Delighted to finally share that after many months of planning, there is an official CrowdFunder to create a permanent mural dedicated to Andy Rourke in partnership with the charity, Pancreatic Cancer Action.https://t.co/PL7N7pgkNL#AndyRourke #TheSmiths #PancreaticCancerAction

— Mike Joyce (@mikejoycedrums) September 15, 2024

In a statement, Joyce said: “Thanks to this Crowdfunder, fans of Andy and The Smiths can contribute to a permanent memorial in his and the band’s hometown of Manchester, but also increase awareness of this debilitating disease and raise money for the charity Pancreatic Cancer Action.

“The mural will not only serve as a permanent tribute to Andy’s legacy as a brilliant musician but also as a memory of the funniest, sweetest lad I had the pleasure of knowing.”

The mural, erected in Manchester, is set to be unveiled in November, and donors are due to receive a photograph print of the mural signed by Joyce and the mural artist.

You can donate to Andy Rourke's Crowdfunder campaign here.