TODAY marks the fifth annual celebration of ‘International Clash Day’. Observed by radio stations and city and state governments around the world, it is a day set aside to acknowledge the ongoing relevance of The Clash and their contributions to our cultural fabric.
Widely recognised as one of the original purveyors of punk rock music, The Clash used their rebellious brand of rock and roll to stand up for the disenfranchised and those dispossessed of power. Emerging at a time when political and social differences were being pushed to the extreme by those in power, Joe Strummer once said about the politics of Thatcher and Reagan: “It was hard to tell who would be worse but we knew that a tremendous struggle was ahead … their tendencies leaned to the far-right, if not fascism.”
It’s an observation that feels all too familiar today. Appropriate then that this year’s theme should be named after ‘Know Your Rights’, a typically biting cut from the Combat Rock LP which explores the civil rights of the poor and disenfranchised. Cities around the world will host live events and performances to commemorate the day while radio stations across the US, Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand and the UK will dedicate their programming to The Clash.
Seattle radio station KEXP host and International Clash Day originator John Richards said: “The message of The Clash, so influenced by the international sounds they grew up with, is both powerful and uplifting especially now in this time of struggle. The Clash represents what KEXP is all about – music, rebellion, and pushing boundaries.”
Meanwhile, the legacy of Joe Strummer and The Clash continues to live on through the work of The Joe Strummer Foundation, which gives opportunities to musicians around the world. Steve Mullen from the Foundation said: “Now, more than ever, we need to stand united and not be divided. It’s for this reason that we support International Clash Day. Anyone with a modicum of humanity can appreciate The Clash and the impact they had on the world. During the late 70s and early 80s they definitely earned the slogan ‘The Only Band That Matters’. Back then, political and social differences were being pushed to the extreme. And now the same is happening in many parts of the world, except this time we have social media to amplify & confuse the truth. International Clash Day ensures new generations are aware that the band, through Joe’s snarling lyrics, called out the conspirators and united the people to stand up and be counted. As Joe Strummer once said: ‘Without people, you’re nothing’ and never a true enough phrase has been spoken.”
