British 80s band the Smiths have topped a new NME poll of the top music icons of the past 50 years.
The original fab four – the Beatles – came second in the poll, followed by the Stone Roses, David Bowie and the Sex Pistols.
The Smiths, led by singer Morrissey and guitarist Johnny Marr, were the definitive English indie band of the 80s - crafting unique three-minute pop singles and many critically acclaimed albums.
Ireland’s U2 finished ninth in the poll.
