Every issue, weâll be exploring a cultural artefact that was inspired by Chelsea and its surroundings. This month, weâre looking at Morriseyâs Hairdresser on FireâŚ
 âAnd youâre always busy
Really busy
Busy, busy
Oh, hairdresser on fire
All around Sloane Squareâ
What is it?
Hairdresser on Fire is a song by Mancunian singer-songwriter Morrissey. Itâs the B-side to his 1988 single Suedehead.
Whatâs it about?
Thatâs open to debate. Some will argue that the song is a scalding critique of Londonâs fashionable scene, in which a Chelsea hairdresser is a sought-after status symbol with the power to âsupernaturally change meâ. Others have read the song as a tongue in cheek ode to Morrisseyâs trademark quiff, and the hairdresser who created it: âI sense the power/ In the fingers/ Within an hour the power/ Could totally destroy me/ Or it could save my lifeâ. Then again, when asked this question in a 1988 interview with NME, Morrissey said âitâs just a very simple song about trying to get hold of a hairdresser.â

Who was Morrisseyâs hairdresser?
Morrissey has used many hairdressers over the years, so the identity of the in-demand Chelsea barber remains unknown. Whoever they were, Morrissey is known to be fastidious about his haircuts, going so far as to collect the clippings from the barbershop floor in a sealed bag.
Why Sloane Square?
Morrissey had a flat in Campden Hill Road in Kensington, and another at 66 Cadogan Square. He often met interviewers at the Cadogan Hotel, attracted by its link to his idol Oscar Wilde. Despite this, the song reveals a certain ambivalence towards London: âOh here is London/ âHome of the brash outrageous and freeâ/ You are repressed/ But youâre remarkably dressed/ Is it real?â
Itâs best listened toâŚ
⌠How about in the hot seat at one of Chelseaâs society hairdressers? Pop in your headphones and book in for a trim at Hariâs on the Kingâs Road, Chelsea Green Salon at 6-8 Cale Street, or Richard Ward Hair in Duke of York Square.Â
If thereâs a cultural artefact youâd like us to explore, drop us an email at alice@pubbiz.com