Shoplifters of the World Unite

"Shoplifters of the World Unite"
Single by the Smiths
B-side	"London" "Half a Person"
Released	26 January 1987
Recorded	November 1986
Studio	Trident Studios, London
Genre	Alternative rock
Length	2:56
Label	Rough Trade
Songwriter(s)	Johnny Marr, Morrissey
Producer(s)	Johnny Marr
The Smiths singles chronology
"Ask" (1986) "Shoplifters of the World Unite" (1987) "Sheila Take a Bow" (1987)

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Allmusic	[1]

"Shoplifters of the World Unite" is a song by the English rock band the Smiths, written by Morrissey and Johnny Marr. Morrissey's lyrics, which endorsed shoplifting and referenced Karl Marx, were controversial at the time of the song's release. Musically, the song continues the glam rock styling of other Smiths singles during the period and includes a short guitar solo from Marr.

"Shoplifters of the World Unite" was first released as a non-album single in January 1987, after the band decided to scrap the single release of their original A-side, "You Just Haven't Earned It Yet, Baby". The song was a commercial success, reaching number twelve in the UK, and has been included on compilation albums such as The World Won't Listen and Louder Than Bombs. It has since seen critical acclaim and Morrissey has named the song as a personal favourite.