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Writer's pictureRoy Sharples

Johnny Marr's Creative Process

Updated: Nov 21


In the heart of Manchester, where brick walls tell tales of resilience and reinvention, I stepped into Johnny Marr’s creative world—an industrial-chic studio buzzing with raw energy. Marr, a legend who has shaped the sonic landscape for over four decades, embodies the perfect blend of artist and craftsman. Over two sun-soaked days, I observed the intricacies of his process, uncovering the roots of his endless creativity that continues to inspire musicians worldwide.

The Marr Manifesto: A Symphony of Imagination, Grit, and Connection


1 Imagination - Dreams Transformed into Sound

At the heart of Marr’s ethos is the power of imagination. He wields his guitar like a painter's brush, drawing out art from deep within. In an age of digital ease, Marr champions the marriage of technology and human spirit—the alchemy that turns pixels and soundwaves into something timeless. “Imagination and the human heart and spirit are what bring those ones and zeros to life,” he muses, reminding us that true artistry lies in the spaces between vision and reality.


Photo credit: Mat Bancroft & Ben Thornley @ Sitcom Soldiers


2 DIY Spirits - Picasso's Wisdom in Action

Marr’s relentless work ethic echoes Picasso’s belief: “Inspiration exists, but it has to find you working.” His journey is a testament to embracing failure, carving out authenticity, and mastering the craft. It’s about the sweat behind the chords, the willingness to persevere, and finding the spark even in the mundane.

Photo credit: Roy Sharples


3 Craftsmanship - the Art of Pursuit

To Marr, playing isn’t just technique; it’s storytelling. The pursuit of excellence is a series of choices—a relentless honing of skills. He believes that achieving greatness means dedicating oneself to the process, pouring soul and sacrifice into every note. “I use the guitar as a tool for creativity, for making something artistic,” Marr shares, turning simple strings into symphonies of intent.


Photo credit: Mat Bancroft & Ben Thornley @ Sitcom Soldiers


4 Collaboration - Where Magics Finds it muse

Breaking the mold requires connection. Marr believes collaboration fuels creativity, sparking inspiration and offering new lenses to view the world. This synergy of minds creates an uncharted path forward, leading to new realms of sound and thought. “The idea of feeling like you never know enough is inspiring, and collaboration triggers that,” Marr affirms, encouraging us to seek out fresh voices and perspectives.


Photo credit: Mat Bancroft & Ben Thornley @ Sitcom Soldiers


5 Mentorship- Wisdom Carried Forward

Marr’s final principle is anchored in mentorship. Absorbing lessons from those who walked before us turns experience into wisdom and guides creative growth. Recalling early producers who shaped his journey, Marr emphasizes, “I was like a sponge, trying to learn everything I could from these older people.”


Photo credit: Roy Sharples


Johnny Marr's Creative Process: A Legacy of Bravery

Johnny Marr’s creative process is a manifesto not just for musicians; it’s a map for anyone looking to shape the world through their art. Embrace your imagination, harness the DIY spirit, perfect your craft, seek out collaboration, and stand on the shoulders of giants. In doing so, you won’t just play the music of life—you’ll compose it, woven into the shared pulse of humanity.


Watch the documentary "Creativity in the Digital Age"

Credits

Executive Producers: Roy Sharples and Steve Franklin. Art Direction: Mat Bancroft. Production Direction: Ben Thornley. Filmed by: Sitcom Soldiers. Artist Management: Sammi Wild and Gary Cohen, ATC Management.


Thank you

Johnny Marr, Dave Cronen, Trust Management, Doviak, Iwan Gronow, Jack Mitchell, Natasha Kay-Sportelli, and Microsoft.


Unleash Your Creativity – Read "Creativity Without Frontiers" today and start building the extraordinary.






















Creator

Roy Sharples

Founder and CEO of Unknown Origins Creative Studios, is in the fight against the epidemic of unoriginality by unleashing creative bravery. Author of "Creativity Without Frontiers: How to make the invisible visible by lighting the way into the future."


Attitude. Imagination. Execution.


Unknown Origins Creative Studios. All rights reserved © copyright 2021


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