Revolution Rock: Joe Strummer and The Clash

http://www.theclashonline.com/





I’ve been on a Clash kick lately. Of all the “socially minded” bands not many ever seemed genuine to me. A lot of it seems too preachy, too “college radio” or just plan limited in its appeal.  The band that really woke me up to the world and the diverse experiences found in other countries was The Clash. Not only did they report the “real news” they also expressed the existential angst of all ages of people in different parts of the world and tried to expose the falsehood of the Hollywood/Media machine. This is not a rock band pulling on the heart strings of western societies to induce guilt, this is not hip-hop that can only be related to by those who grew up in similar situations. This is a band that traveled, lived a blue collar/poverty lifestyle, explored world music and was popular in a time before music was overly manufactured.

This band being well versed in musicology knew how to put thoughtful lyrics that normally wouldn’t be permitted on top 40 radio to catchy music that was undeniable to the masses. This band’s members were authentic rockers with no need for gimmicks. London was calling and the call was to acknowledge what was rebelling inside of you, wake up to the world around you, be authentic and have the guts to engage with life in your own way. This band was well versed on world music and let us know what’s up on the streets around the world.

There has yet to be a band to appeal to such a wide audience with such a powerful message not just to rebel but to wake up, get your bearings about you and do something, anything! Their legacy and inspiration is found in every genre of music world wide. Although world politics has changed since these albums release the core truth they were shining a light on has not.  The lyrics, music, heart and soul of their music is timeless. If fact it’s more relevant than ever in an age that suppresses our instincts, critical thinking and five senses.  Revolution has taken on a whole different meaning. There aren’t any sappy love songs or woe is me bull shit. Instead the songs of a personal nature are about rising above and relating in the spirit of true friendship and love.  Luckily the popularity gained while they were together will bring them to generations to come even if they first come to them to be “cool”.

In my opinion no other punk band had the sophistication musically, politically or lyrically of The Clash. They epitomized the spirit of what the punk movement was really all about; not just filth and furry but raw from the gut descent. I hope one day they get their due in the history of popular music. They should be up there with The Beatles but as always it’s much easier to sing along and listen to transcending lovely thoughts than the nitty gritty of life’s reality. I’m posting a documentary on Joe Strummer the lead singer of The Clash and a documentary on the band. I hope you take time to read through their song lyrics in the below link. Explore and Enjoy!

Song Lyrics

http://www.mattsmusicpage.com/the_clash_lyrics.html





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