Guardian Music — What does a rock critic really know about being in a band? Guardian reviewer and part-time drummer Dave Simpson found out the hard wayThe bombshell arrived on a Monday morning. "Dear all," began the lead guitarist's email. "I'm afraid I've come ... more info

Guardian Music — Legendary songwriter will make his only UK festival appearance alongside Peter Gabriel, Suede and Patti SmithBob Dylan will make his only UK festival appearance of the summer alongside Peter Gabriel and Suede at the Hop Farm. The 70-year old singer w... more info

ContactMusic — Singer Morrissey has branded veteran actress Joan Collins sad for buying leather handbags The vegetarian singer who is an outspoken campaigner for animal rights met up with the former Dynasty star during a trip to his native U K earlier this month M.... more info

Guardian Music — Run by mavericks with little or no business sense, independent record labels turned the music industry on its head in the 80s. And their sound and aesthetic remains a huge influence to this dayWhen Johnny Marr and Morrissey met for the second time in... more info

Stopcryingyourheartout.com — To celebrate NME's 60th birthday, we're going to be crowning the ultimate musical icon from the magazine's lifetime and we're leaving the decision about who it is entirely down to you.The shortlist for the honour features 60 people, including Liam & ... more info

Guardian Music — The singer is in trouble for backing Argentina's claims to the Falklands, but we still love him – don't we?Peter Paphides, music writerTo be a national treasure you have to be likable. Is Morrissey likable any more? I'm almost loth to say that he i... more info

Stopcryingyourheartout.com — Liam has seen off competition from Mick Jagger, Freddie Mercury, Jim Morrison and Kurt Cobain to win XFM's 'Greatest Frontman Of All Time' poll as voted for by their listeners.Liam was interviewed by the station about the win which fans can listen to... more info

Guardian Music — Matt and Phreds, ManchesterWhat a difference a song makes. Without her band behind her, Ren Harvieu is a delightfully awkward bag of nerves, sipping at a pint of lager and flashing bashful glances towards the crowd. Then she launches into Tonight, a ... more info

Guardian Music — He knows its over, still he clings – Danny Coughlan doesn't know where else he can go, except deep into widescreen melancholyHometown: Bristol.The lineup: Danny Coughlan (vocals, guitar).The background: Danny Coughlan as Crybaby is an astonishingly... more info

Big Apple Music Scene — Although they were a wonderful band with wonderful songs, The Smiths were never known for their cheerfulness. But what if you converted one of their songs into an 8-bit Super Nintendo theme? It's either the bounciest Smiths song or the saddest video ... more info