Joe Strummer

It is easy to fall into the mode of hero-worship with famous people. They reside on some elevated plateau where nothing can tarnish their image. I gave up on the illusion a long time ago. There is only one singer I count among those whom I admire. Joe Strummer. Was he fallible, yes, in fact he would probably be the first to tell you that. However, throughout his life, Joe Strummer never lost his humanity. Whether he was singing with The Clash or with The Mescaleros, he was in touch with people's lives. I admire the hell out of him for being uncompromising yet compassionate ("If you're after getting the honey. Then you don't go killing all the bees"). That is a hard balance to achieve. Even later in his life, he did not take on the fading, washed-up rock star role, he created, he lived, and he inspired. In some ways, I appreciate his work with The Mescaleros even more because it shows a matured, more worldy side of Joe Strummer. Even his songs set in London, "Bhindi Bhagee" celebrate the diversity found in the city. He used his voice to reach out to not only the disenfranchised but the suburban teen as well - again, not something achievable. I will quit my ramble and celebrate him through his music. I am going to post a lot of clips and I hope you have a chance to listen to them all.
On a side note that is not really a side note at all, my friend, Tully, reminds me that on the same day, December 22nd, D Boon of the Minutemen died. Tully, if you want to add more about D Boon, we are happy to hear your thoughts. So, in his honor, we will be posting a clip as well.

The Minutemen - Little Man With A Gun In His Hand

London Calling

Johnny Appleseed

Redemption Song (tribute video)

Anyone who would like to add Strummer videos, please feel free.