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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.
Critically, London Calling has been celebrated for its ambition and range, often cited alongside landmark albums in rock history for its fusion of genres and its ability to translate political urgency into compelling music.
Its iconic cover—featuring Simonon smashing his bass, photographed by Pennie Smith—echoes the design of Elvis Presley’s debut album, visually linking past and present while signaling a reinvention of rock tradition.
Original album title: The Last Testament
For more information: Route 19 Revisited: The Clash and London Calling by Marcus Gray
