Clash, The, was a popular British rock band that played a major role in creating the punk rock movement. Punk rock has a loud, fast, and energetic sound, and punk rockers bring an angry, rebellious attitude to their music. The Clash was known for its exciting live performances and passionate political lyrics.
The Clash was formed in London in 1976 by lead singer and rhythm guitarist Joe Strummer (John Graham Mellor, 1952-2002); singer and lead guitarist Mick Jones (1955-…); and singer and bassist Paul Simonon (1955-…). Drummer Nicky “Topper” Headon (1955-…) joined the band in 1977. Strummer and Jones wrote most of the band’s songs.
The Clash’s first single, “White Riot,” was released in the United Kingdom in 1977. It was featured on the band’s highly successful first album, The Clash, released in the United Kingdom the same year. A different version of the album came out in 1979 in the United States. That album included the hit single “I Fought the Law.”
The album London Calling (1979) featured the hits “London Calling” and “Train in Vain.” The group’s other albums were Give ‘Em Enough Rope (1978); Sandinista! (1980); and Combat Rock (1982), which included the hits “Should I Stay or Should I Go” and “Rock the Casbah.”
Headon was fired from the group in 1982, and Jones was fired in 1983. The Clash continued with new members but disbanded in early 1986. Strummer died of a heart attack in 2002. The Clash was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2003.
See also Punk rock; Rock music (Punk rock).
