London Calling by The Clash...Episode #23

In episode #23 of Classic Rock Album Olympics music historians Gary Wenstrup and Robert Rodriguez discuss London Calling by The Clash and award their gold, silver and bronze medals accordingly.

Medal Winners

Lost In The Supermarket

Spanish Bombs

The Right Profile

Rudie Can't Fail

Clampdown

Train In Vain

London Calling by The Clash was released in the U.S. in January 1980, marking a turning point not just for the band but for late-1970s rock. Expanding far beyond their early punk sound, the double album blends reggae, ska, rockabilly, R&B, and pop into a politically charged yet musically adventurous statement that captured the turbulence of the era—economic decline, nuclear anxiety, and social unrest—while still delivering sharp songwriting and energy.

The album is considered the most "musical" punk album and its most ambitious.

The core lineup featured Joe Strummer (lead vocals, rhythm guitar + lyrics), Mick Jones (lead guitar, vocals + music), Paul Simonon (bass), and Topper Headon (drums). The album was produced by Guy Stevens with mostly just 1 or 2 takes for each song.

While the album only reached #27 on the U.S. Billboard 200, its reputation grew steadily, and it is now widely regarded as one of the greatest albums of all time.  The lone single released from the album in the U.S. was "Train in Vain." The song was added at the last minute and unlisted on early pressings, reaching #23 on the Billboard Hot 100.