There Is a Light That Never Goes Out
Exploring the lasting emotional impact of The Smiths' 1986 anthem of hope, loss and love.
Soul Music · BBC Radio 4
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Show Notes
'There Is a Light That Never Goes Out' by The Smiths is explored through personal stories.
Released in 1986 on 'The Queen Is Dead' album, it's become an anthem of hope, loss and love.
As a teenager, Andy listened to it with his father, as he drove him to work. They had a moment of connection, and when his father died suddenly a few weeks later, the song took on huge significance.
When her young son was ill, Sharon Woolley drew strength from this music as she sat by his bedside in the small hours of the morning.
For comic artist Lucy Knisley, the song got her through a bad break-up with her long-term boyfriend - and its meaning changed for her when unexpected events unfolded.
Also featuring:
Mike Garry Teddy Jameison Mark Gatiss Simon Goddard
Producer: Sara Conkey
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in December 2014.