Towards the end of the film, God says "Pity you didn't sign The Smiths." Was this actually going to happen during Factory's history? And if they had signed The Smiths, does anyone wonder if that probably could have saved Factory from all the financial problems that plagued them.
shareI don't think Factory was meant to be saved by anything - potentially signing The Smiths or New Order's actual relentless drilling of cash into the enterprise. I think more resources would have only meant more intriguing ways to be squandered.
shareYeah, I doubt throwing Smiths' royalties into that money pit known as the Hacienda would have helped that much.
shareAlthough, knowing Morrissey and his lyrics, we would have gotten some acidic musical commentary on the whole situation. I don't for certain if any of New Order's opaque lyrics were aimed at Factory and its creative accounting.
shareNo, instead, their royalties were poured into a money pit known as Rough Trade.
shareSigning the Smiths might have extended the lifespan of the Hacienda and Factory Records somewhat, but the fundamental problem was that (at least as portrayed in the film) Tony Wilson was reckless with his money. It's just as likely that any money from the Smiths would have gone towards buying a 60,000-quid table instead of a 30,000-quid table.
shareI WAS TOLD THE SMITHS TURNED DOWN FACTORY
shareecstasy and gangs is what ruined the hacienda, too many people were on drugs and not buying from behind the bar, and the gangs were taking "protection" money or however anyone wants to interprete that phrase. read gang wars by peter walsh
as for factory records, it was never really a business, few people / few bands having a laugh making music, people behind factory wanting to be cool and trendy
another fact is that factory records was the only record lable that oasis sent there demo to, factory wernt interested also
phil x
from what i've read in interviews with johnny marr, he said that they went for an interview at factory records and tony wilson did want to sign them, but they felt it was 'necessary' that they didn't sign with factory so as not to be associated with 'all those other factory bands'. which is fair enough, and worked for them.
What's that? You just called me a bastard didn't you!
My darling Reilly,
Though it pains me greatly, I fear I must cancel our forthcoming nuptials. For years I have been suffering with a severe Morrissey allergy. I can only listen to the Smiths in karaoke format. Please find it in your heart to forgive me such sin.
I don't know how to go on without you by my side, dear Reilly. Given time and adequate medication, the pain of our separation may fade to a dull but incessant ache. Until then, I remain yours in spirit.
All my love,
Fiona xxx
SWF WLTM SM with GSOH for LTR. ACA. No Smiths fans.
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