Don't Forget the Hooligans

In 1999 he opened his tour by saying, "Hello, we're the Sweet and Tender Hooligans." That's when I realized, "Oh my God, he knows who we are." Later, as it turns out, at an autograph session, I was like the 127th person in line and, as soon as he made eye contact with me, he was like, "Oh, there you are." I gave him a look and said something to the effect of, "Oh, you know who I am?" And he said, very jokingly, "Of course I know you. It's as if I was looking in the mirror." Right after that, his words were "How was the show last week?" meaning he knew about a show we just did at the House of Blues. He asked what songs we played, and I mentioned "Lost," and he said, "You've done that song before, and you know how I know? I have a copy of one of your shows on VHS." To have him tell me that was incredible.

Has he ever seen you play live?

Details

Morrissey performs with Kristeenyoung on Saturday, July 14, at Mizner Park Amphitheater, 590 Plaza Real, Boca Raton. Doors open at 8:00 p.m. Tickets cost $45 to $75. Visit www.ticketmaster.com.

Related Content

• Coachella 2013: Five Worst Moments of Weekend One
  April 15, 2013
• New Order's Nostalgic Set at Coachella 2013
  April 15, 2013
• Hated for Loving
  February 9, 2012
• Cheap Valentine's Day Plans That Don't Skimp on Romance
  February 10, 2012
• Ten Craziest Fan Cults in Music: From the Beliebers to the Wacko Jackos and the Juggalos
  October 16, 2012

More About

• Morrissey (Singer)
• The Smiths (Band)
• Jose Maldonado
• Pasadena
• Hispanic and Latino Issues

He has seen us playing, we think, twice. We're certain of one, but the second show has yet to be confirmed.

You've stated in the past that Sweet and Tender Hooligans is a hobby, not a livelihood. Yet very few musical artists have ever felt the need to acknowledge their tribute bands like Morrissey has. That's pretty impressive for a hobby, don't you think?

It sure beats bowling.