Morrissey Softens Stance on 'Notre-Dame' in New Single, Omitting Terrorism Lyric
Morrissey releases 'Notre-Dame,' a track inspired by the Notre-Dame fire, with a notable lyrical change from live performances.
Controversial crooner Morrissey has released his new single, ‘Notre-Dame,’ a poignant reflection on the devastating fire that struck the historical Parisian cathedral on April 15, 2019. However, the studio version notably omits a controversial lyric concerning terrorism that he had previously sung live.
The mid-paced indie-rock track features a prominent synth line. “Notre-Dame, we know who tried to kill you,” Morrissey sings in the released version. “Notre-Dame, we will not be silent.” The cathedral was closed for five years, undergoing renovations that cost over $700 million.
Investigations into the fire's cause have been inconclusive. Paris’ chief prosecutor Laure Beccuau stated in April 2024, “Every avenue, including the hypothesis of a human role in the origin of this fire (has been) explored since the beginning of the investigation... the more weight is lent to the theory of an accident.”
In live performances dating back to 2023, the former The Smiths frontman included the line: “Before investigations/They said, ‘It’s not terrorism’.” This line has been replaced in the studio version with a repeat of the earlier line: “Before investigations/They said, ‘There’s nothing to see here.'”
Check out the song below:
‘Notre-Dame’ is the second single from Morrissey’s upcoming album, ‘Make-Up Is A Lie,’ his first album in six years, set to drop on March 6 via Sire Records. He signed with Sire Records after leaving Capitol Records.
This album is separate from his long-delayed ‘Bonfire Of Teenagers’. Morrissey has alleged sabotage by Capitol Records regarding ‘Bonfire Of Teenagers’ and claimed the CEO was trying to derail his career, further stating he was being “gagged” over its release.
Miley Cyrus was initially slated to appear on ‘Bonfire Of Teenagers’ on a track called ‘I Am Veronica,’ but later requested her vocals be removed, reportedly due to his political views and support for the far-right party For Britain.
Morrissey has denied being far-right, and former bandmate Johnny Marr has commented on how it has “cast a shadow over The Smiths”.
While Morrissey has bought back the rights to ‘Bonfire Of Teenagers,’ its release remains uncertain.
Morrissey's European tour began in Denmark on February 13, including a headline date at The O2 in London, his only scheduled UK gig this year. Tickets for the UK show can be found here, and international shows here.
However, Morrissey has cancelled five shows this year due to “artist illness” and an “adverse reaction to a prescription medication.”
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