The Top 10 Clash Songs
Remembering The Clash lead singer Joe Strummer, born 72 years ago
The Top 10 Clash Songs
Joe Strummer formed The Clash in 1976 after a concert of the then still largely unknown Sex Pistols. In only one year The Clash became alongside with the Sex Pistols the most popular British Punk Rock band, first with core Punk songs such as “White Riot”, and later with an eclectic fusion of different styles that incorporated reggae, ska, dub, funk, rap, and rockabilly
The iconic British musician, singer, and songwriter and frontman of the legendary punk rock band The Clash, Joe Strummer, was born John Graham Mellor on August 21, 1952, in Ankara, Turkey. Strummer was born into a British diplomatic family, and his early years were spent moving between different countries, including Turkey, Egypt, and Mexico. He eventually settled in London for his education. His exposure to different cultures and social issues during his formative years shaped his worldview and later influenced his music.
In the early 1970s, Strummer began his musical career in the London pub rock scene with the band The 101ers. However, it was in 1976, when he co-founded The Clash with guitarist Mick Jones, bassist Paul Simonon, and drummer Terry Chimes (later replaced by Topper Headon), that Strummer’s career truly took off. The Clash quickly became one of the most important bands of the punk movement, known for their energetic performances and politically charged lyrics.
The Clash’s self-titled debut album, released in 1977, established the band as a powerful force in punk music, with songs like “White Riot” and “London’s Burning” capturing the anger and frustration of a generation. The band’s third album, London Calling (1979), is widely regarded as one of the greatest albums of all time, featuring a diverse range of musical styles and themes that addressed both personal and global issues.
Strummer was the driving force behind The Clash’s music and lyrics, often writing about social justice, anti-establishment sentiments, and the struggles of the working class. The band’s influence extended beyond music, becoming a voice for those disillusioned with the political and social systems of the time.
After The Clash disbanded in 1986, Strummer continued to explore his musical interests, working on various projects and scoring films. In the late 1990s, he formed the band Joe Strummer and the Mescaleros, blending punk with world music influences. The Mescaleros released three albums, including Global a Go-Go (2001), which were well-received and showcased Strummer’s continued creativity and commitment to addressing global issues through his music.
Joe Strummer was also known for his humility and activism. He was married twice; his second wife, Lucinda Tait, whom he married in 1995, remained with him until his death. Strummer was also a father to three daughters.
Joe Strummer passed away on December 22, 2002, at the age of 50 from a sudden cardiac arrest at his home in Broomfield, Somerset, England. The cause of death was later attributed to an undiagnosed congenital heart defect. Here’s the Top 10 Clash Songs
10 – “Career Opportunities”, from “The Clash” 1977
9 – “Tommy Gun”, from “Give ‘Em Enough Rope” 1978
8 – “Train in Vain”, from “London Calling” 1979
7 – “Rock the Casbah”, from “Combat Rock” 1982
6 – “(White Man) In Hammersmith Palais”, Single 1978
5 – “Straight to Hell”, from “Combat Rock” 1982
4 – “The Guns of Brixton”, from “London Calling” 1979
3 – “Should I Stay or Should I Go”, from “Combat Rock” 1982
2 – “White Riot”, from “The Clash” 1977
1 – “London Calling”, from “London Calling” 1979
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