In conversation with The Big Issue, the punk icon delves into art, resilience, and the band's relentless drive for transformation.
In a recent interview with Adrian Lobb of The Big Issue magazine, Paul Simonon, the bassist for the legendary punk rock band The Clash, delved into the group’s unwavering commitment to their music and message during their time together. Simonon’s reflections offer a glimpse into the work ethic and drive that propelled The Clash to become one of the most influential bands in history.
Simonon reminisces about the band’s early days, noting how they were constantly on the move, writing and recording music, and touring. The Clash was known for their intense live performances, often playing multiple shows in a day. This unyielding work ethic contributed significantly to their success, but it also came at a cost. As Simonon points out, “We didn’t really take breaks, and that’s probably why we only lasted 10 years.”
Despite the challenges the band faced, Simonon believes that their dedication to their mission ultimately led to the creation of a body of work that continues to inspire and educate others. He says, “We left behind a lot of good work that people can still learn from and be inspired by.” The Clash’s music has transcended generations, and their influence can still be felt in the punk and rock scenes today.
For more insights and memories from Paul Simonon, be sure to check out the full interview in The Big Issue magazine.
Follow The Big Issue on its Socials
Need more Punk In Your Life?
Live review: Disorder at Reading Facebar – 11th Oct 2025
Disorder, Healthy Junkies, and local punks Tape It Shut and Skinhawk brought the generations together at Reading Facebar. Disorder are still angry and all the
Book review: ‘Early Days, a conversation about art, punk & otherness’ by Penelope Houston with Maria Elena Buszek
‘Early Days, a conversation about art, punk & otherness’ by Penelope Houston of The Avengers with Maria Elena Buszek was recently published in the USA
Rats With Wings Records 5th Anniversary, The Prince Albert, Brighton 05.10.25
The Stereotypes (UK), Family Of Strangers, Noir Mates and Thee Derelique put on a punk party at Brighton’s Prince Albert to celebrate Rats With Wings
Album Review: The Menstrual Cramps say ‘We’re Not Ovaryacting’
Formed and based in Bristol, UK, The Menstrual Cramps have applaudingly never held back with their righteous manifesto. They are proudly, self described as a
Album Review: Omega Tribe prove ‘Power Pop Punk Rock’ has a future!
A particularly big fixture in the anarcho-punk scene of the early 80’s, Omega Tribe were much more tuneful than many of their peers, which made
Undercover Festival makes its unforgettable debut in Essex – Day Two review!
The second day at Undercover Festival 2025 saw even more of the best bands and artists playing, including The Stereotypes, Wyrd Sisters, Hinge, The Fanzines,
Callum Wyatt is a Dublin-based music journalist with a passion for punk and a love for uncovering the untold stories of music history. When he’s not writing, you can find him hanging out with his cat, Oscar.
Did you know that we are 100% DIY? We run our own game. No one dictates to us, and no one drives what we can or cannot put on our pages – and this is how we plan to continue!
