The Smiths

Separating the art from the artist ("How Morrissey Ruined Morrissey"):

I came across this video talking about how The Smiths saved the narrator's life. 

Now I know that the songs can sound overwrought to a happily-married 55-year-old. But thinking back to what it was like at 17, 18, 19, struggling with alienation and depression, the songs are very powerful, connecting to and providing solace when feeling isolated and alone. I would think these songs are speaking to a lot of kids and young people today. 

So here are a few of their songs, somewhat random:

There Is a Light That Never Goes Out

Well I Wonder (Perks of Being a Wallflower version [movie filmed in Pittsburgh])

Girlfriend in a Coma (in case you thought they didn't have a sense of humor)

Please, Please, Please, Let Me Get What I Want (less than 2 minutes long)

The Draize Train (Live in London, 1986) (Instrumental; I assume it is a reference to the Draize test on animals)

This Charming Man (more upbeat music)

The Headmaster's Ritual (I know I've linked to it before, but it is a shocking mix of upbeat music and dark lyrics)