'Morrissey' official lyric video. Source: Youtube
Just last Friday, Robbie Williams released his thirteenth studio album BRITPOP. Despite not being one of its singles, one song that has stood out is ‘Morrissey’. The cheesy synth-pop track has confused listeners as to whether it is a love letter or a diss track - or both.
The song is from the perspective of an obsessed Morrissey fan, co-written with Garry Barlow. This seems a strange topic for a pop artist and former Take That Member; through its ridiculous and satirical lyrics, however, it becomes evident Williams may be mocking the former Smiths frontman.
This isn’t the first time Williams has made reference to Morrissey. Back in May 2025, Williams posted a video on TikTok, dancing to Morrissey’s ‘Suedehead’ and impersonating the singer. What’s more, William’s album closely followed the release Morrissey’s ‘Make-up is a Lie’, suggesting a connection between the two.
Williams’ song blends a playful sound with equally as frivolous lyrics. Dedicated to one of the most despised people in music, he surprisingly sings in praise:
“I like the singer/ He’s a little eccentric/ He did an interview/ I think what he meant was”
This refers to the backlash Morrissey has received for his comments in interviews over the years, arguing that the singer is simply misunderstood due to inner struggles:
“I'm lost, I'm lonely, I'm hurt, I'm abused/ I need love baby, just like you”
This section is no doubt parodying the self-pity that characterised The Smiths, in a nod to the ‘How Soon Is Now?’ lyric “I am human and I need to be loved/ Just like everybody else does”.
During the chorus, Williams imagines Morrissey “talking to [him] in code”. Morrissey’s lyrics are renowned not only for their ability to connect with people, but also for making listeners feel as if they were written just for them. Relatability in music is even explored on The Smiths’ ‘Rubber Ring’, which itself is written from the perspective of a song. It is a testament to how music can become a lifeline, and Williams humorously channels this into his.
In the bridge, he repeats the lyric “Come here let me hold you, let me hold you/ for the rest of your life”. It holds “I can fix him” energy, expressing his belief that he can love away somebody's flaws - though Morrissey is clearly beyond any kind of love. This line is also speculated to have a homoerotic undertone, something which a lot of Morrissey's lyrics contain.
In ways, ‘Morrissey’ can be read as a ridicule, either of obsessive fans, or of the man himself. Regardless, its fun pop sound and witty lyrics make for an entertaining listen.
