A mural of former Smiths bassist Andy Rourke has been unveiled on the side of The Wheatsheaf pub in Manchester’s Northern Quarter. Revealed on Pancreatic Cancer Day, the tribute not only celebrates Rourke’s legacy but also raises awareness for the disease that claimed his life last year at the age of 59.
The mural was painted by renowned street artist Akse P19, whose work often immortalises cultural icons, from Mark E. Smith to Ian Curtis. The black-and-white artwork is based on a photograph of Rourke taken during The Smiths’ 1985 tour, performing at Dundee’s Caird Hall. Next to the painting is a prominent logo of the Pancreatic Cancer Action charity
Mike Joyce, Rourke’s bandmate and drummer for The Smiths, attended the unveiling and praised the mural in an interview with BBC Radio Manchester: “I knew it was going to be good; I just didn’t realise how good it would be.” Reflecting on Rourke’s musical legacy, Joyce added, “He gained immortality when he played those bass lines, and those bass lines are here forever.”
Rourke’s role in The Smiths has often been overshadowed by the spotlight on Morrissey and Johnny Marr. However, his intricate bass work, particularly on Meat Is Murder, provided a solid foundation that allowed the singer and guitarist to shine. This mural is a reminder of his importance to the band and Manchester’s music scene. The Wheatsheaf’s owners, Robert Ashton and Lisa Booth, were eager to support the project. “We’re a music pub, we both love music, so we said yes straightaway,” they told BBC Manchester. The mural cements the Northern Quarter’s reputation as a hub for Manchester’s musical heritage.
The project also served as a fundraising effort, with over £32,000 raised so far for the Pancreatic Cancer Action charity. Mike Joyce played a key role, offering personalised rewards for donors, including signed Smiths vinyl and prints of the original photograph used for the mural. “We wanted to do something to celebrate Andy’s life,” Joyce explained. “We initially thought we’d put on a gig or a DJ show… but the next day, it would have been over. Now, we have something that will last forever.”
Manchester has long been a city proud of its musical history, with tributes to local icons like Mark E. Smith, Pete Shelley, and Liam Gallagher adorning its streets. These must-see locations have been a boost for tourism, drawing music fans to landmarks like Salford Lads Club and the murals of the Northern Quarter.
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The reaction to the Rourke mural has been overwhelmingly positive. Reddit user InnerBlacksmith1858 summarised the sentiment: “Criminally underrated. [Joyce] and Rourke both.” Fans have expressed gratitude that a quieter, yet essential, part of The Smiths’ rhythm section is receiving overdue recognition.
What a tribute to one of Mancunia’s finest.
— ChrisL20 (@Drainstarrrr) November 21, 2024
With its thoughtful design, the mural strikes a balance between honouring Rourke and raising awareness for pancreatic cancer. As Joyce aptly put it, Andy Rourke’s legacy is immortal—and now it’s painted in his home city for all to see.
