London Calling Is Released

Setting the scene

The Clash had been punk's most political band since their 1977 debut, but by 1979 they were absorbing reggae, rockabilly, and R&B. Recording at Vanilla Studios in London with producer Guy Stevens, they spent triple their budget on a double album. British unemployment and racial tension informed lyrics beyond three-chord rage.

What happened

London Calling was released in the U.K. in December 1979 and in the U.S. in January 1980, with the title track referencing the BBC World Service idiom and nuclear dread. Train in Vain was hidden on the original LP label, and Guns of Brixton paid tribute to reggae bass lines. The cover paid homage to Elvis Presley's debut album pose with Paul Simonon smashing his bass.

Why it still matters

The album is routinely ranked among the greatest ever, expanded punk's musical palette, and influenced U2 and Public Enemy. It proved rebellion could include melody and genre mixing. Memorable detail: Simonon's bass-smash photo was captured at a New York Palladium show when security fought the crowd and he slammed the instrument in frustration.

Background

The double album expanded what punk could say politically.