Morrissey, the legendary English singer and songwriter, is known for his lengthy concerts that can often stretch well beyond the typical 1-2 hour show that most musicians perform. Though concert lengths can vary depending on the tour, venue, and other factors, Morrissey has developed a reputation for exhausting performances that test the endurance of even his most dedicated fans.
Typical Morrissey Concert Length
The typical Morrissey concert lasts between 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours 15 minutes, not including any opening acts. However, it is not unusual for the singer to play for 2.5 hours or even longer, especially if it is a solo show without an opening band. Here is a breakdown of common Morrissey concert lengths:
- 1 hour 45 minutes – 2 hours: A standard headlining show with opening act(s)
- 2 hours 15 minutes – 2 hours 45 minutes: A longer headlining show with opening act(s)
- 2 hours 30 minutes – 3 hours+: A Morrissey solo show without an opener
These time ranges are based on numerous fan reports and reviews from Morrissey tours over the past 10-15 years. While each tour can vary slightly, this gives a general idea of what to expect from a typical Morrissey concert length.
Factors That Determine Morrissey Concert Length
There are a few key factors that come into play when determining the length of a Morrissey concert:
- Venue curfew – Some venues have strict noise curfews that require concerts to end by a certain time. This can force Morrissey to shorten some shows that he would otherwise extend.
- Tour itinerary – On certain tours where travel requires long distances between shows, Morrissey may need to shorten some concerts to get to the next city. Tours with more shows in closer proximity allow for longer shows.
- Opening act(s) – With opening act(s), Morrissey’s set will be shorter than a solo show to accommodate the other performer(s).
- Special events – At festivals, anniversary shows, or other special concerts, Morrissey may opt for an extended performance.
Beyond these logistical factors, Morrissey is also known to gauge the enthusiasm of the crowd and venue when determining how long to play. If the audience energy is high, he may be inclined to extend the setlist by another 30-45+ minutes.
Morrissey’s Longest Concerts
Though typical shows run just under 2.5 hours, Morrissey has frequently shattered concert length records over his 35+ year career. Here are some of his longest known performances:
- 2 hours 55 minutes – The Forum, Los Angeles in 2012
- 3 hours 30 minutes – Heatwave Festival, Tel Aviv in 2016
- 3 hours 45 minutes – Lokerse Festival, Lokeren in 2013
- 4 hours – Mexico City in 2000 (his longest concert on record)
As these examples illustrate, when given the opportunity Morrissey will play marathon-length shows that test even the most hardcore fans’ endurance. His unpredictable concert durations keep audiences on their toes.
Shortest Morrissey Concerts
While Morrissey is known for playing expansive sets, there have been rare occasions where circumstances forced him to take the stage for much shorter than usual:
- 45 minutes – KROQ Almost Acoustic Christmas in 1991. Morrissey ended the set early after confrontations with the crowd.
- 55 minutes – Riot Fest in Chicago in 2017. The festival had tight scheduling and significant sound issues forced an early end.
- 1 hour 5 minutes – Late Show with David Letterman in 1995. TV time slots restrict how long musical guests can play.
Though these shows were unusually brief for Morrissey, he has played hundreds of concerts in the 2+ hour range that highlight his tendency for expansive performances. Many classic artists play 60-90 minute sets, so even Morrissey’s “short” shows are longer than the average.
What to Expect from a Long Morrissey Concert
For fans gearing up for an extended Morrissey concert, they can expect:
- 20+ songs in the setlist, covering his vast catalog
- Multiple encore breaks, sometimes with full wardrobe changes
- Deeper album cuts and rare B-sides mixed with hit singles
- Lengthy improvised interactions with the audience
Morrissey is notorious for one-upping his shows, playing until he has exhausted his own energy and voice. After nearly four decades of unpredictable concerts, fans have learned to leave his shows with patience and stamina.
Record-Breaking Shows on Broadway Residency
When Morrissey brought his show to Broadway for a 7-night residency at the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre in 2004, he used the intimate venue to mount some of his longest ever concerts:
Show Date | Length |
---|---|
May 11, 2004 | 2 hours 55 minutes |
May 13, 2004 | 3 hours 5 minutes |
May 18, 2004 | 2 hours 50 minutes |
The Broadway shows gave Morrissey a classic venue and attentive audience that allowed him to stretch his shows closer to the 3 hour mark, rarely attempted before or since.
Physical Exertion of Long Concerts
Morrissey’s long concerts are impressive displays of physical stamina for a singer his age. Some of the physical challenges Morrissey faces during 3+ hour shows include:
- Sustained vocal effort and strain on voice
- Remaining active jumping and dancing on stage
- Exhaustion and fatigue setting in
- Overheating from hot stage lights
- Dehydration from perspiring and vocal exertion
Despite these hurdles, Morrissey’s commitment to deliver marathon shows for devoted fans keeps him exceeding normal concert lengths again and again.
Response from Fans and Critics
Morrissey’s famously lengthy concerts have polarized fans and critics over the years. Here are some of the common reactions:
- Praise – Admirers appreciate Morrissey’s determination to go the extra mile for fans’ money and enjoyment.
- Delight – Fans express elation at being treated to so much bonus material beyond a standard set.
- Fatigue – Some fans report exhaustion from having to stand through 3+ hours, especially at crowded festivals.
- Criticism – Reviewers argue the show’s quality dilutes after the first couple hours and it turns into self-indulgence.
While reactions are mixed, Morrissey shows no signs of shortening his concerts anytime soon, so attendees should be prepared for the long haul.
Extra Songs and Covers
A benefit of Morrissey’s long concerts is he pulls out extra songs to fill the time, delighting longtime fans. Some of the special additions at his marathon shows include:
- Rare Smiths numbers not played in years
- B-sides and deep album cuts
- One-off covers such as Patti Smith, New York Dolls, Ramones, etc.
- Airings of new unreleased songs
These unexpected treats reward fans who have the stamina to last for the entire 3+ hours and beyond.
Tips for Making it Through a Long Morrissey Show
For fans who want to make it to the very end of an extended Morrissey concert, here are some tips:
- Arrive well-rested and hydrated – conserving energy is key
- Wear comfortable shoes – standing for 3+ hours can put a hurt on your feet
- Pack light layers – temperatures can fluctuate in a crowded venue
- Eat a filling meal beforehand – avoid getting hungry mid-show
- Pace yourself between songs – take any chance to briefly sit and relax
While Morrissey tests limits at his concerts, preparing properly helps fans withstand the duration.
Conclusion
Morrissey’s concerts have become legendary as much for their unpredictable length as their content. Though shows averaging nearly 3 hours could be seen as excessive by some, to his fans they are a display of his dedication. Morrissey continues to defy normal concert limits, for better or worse, deep into his career. For those planning to attend an upcoming show, be ready for an endurance test as you settle in for the long haul.