Robert James Smith (born 21 April 1959) is an English musician. He is the lead singer, guitarist, lyricist and principal songwriter of the rock band The Cure, and its only constant member since its formation in 1976. He has been described as "pop culture's unkempt poster child of doom and gloom." Smith's guitar-playing and use of flanging, chorusing and phasing effects put him among the forefront of the gothic rock and new wave genres. He also played guitar in the band Siouxsie and the Banshees. Smith is a multi-instrumentalist, known for his unique stage look, such as teased hair, smudged makeup, and his distinctive voice.
Smith was born in the Lancashire town of Blackpool and is the third of four children born to James Alexander and Rita Mary (née Emmott) Smith. Smith came from a musical family – his father sang and his mother played the piano.
Raised Catholic, he later became an atheist. When he was three years old, in December 1962 his family moved to Horley, Surrey, where he later attended St Francis Primary School, before the family moved to Crawley, West Sussex, in March 1966, where Smith attended St Francis Junior School. He later attended Notre Dame Middle School (1970–72) and St Wilfrid's Comprehensive School, Crawley (1972–77).
I give myself very good advice
But I very seldom follow it
Could explains the trouble
That I'm always in
Be patient, is very good advice
But the waiting makes me curious
And I'd love the change
Should something strange begin
Well, I went along my merry way
And I never stopped to reason
I should have known there'd be a price to pay
Someday
I give myself very good advice
But I very seldom follow it
Will I ever learn to do the things I should?
Well, I went along my merry way
And I never stopped to reason
I should have known there'd be a price to pay
Someday
I give myself very good advice
But I very seldom follow it
Will I ever learn, will I ever learn?