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: Vive Le X-Mess at The Water Rats!
Vive Le Rock were ushering in the festive season with an impressive mid-week five band bill at London’s The Water Rats.


Long Beach, hardcore outfit ’92 Celebrates its partnership with Rude Records by Dropping New Single ‘Culture’
Cali Hardcore 5-Piece ’92 Blazes Its Own Trail With a Nod To The Past On banger of a new track!


Proto Punks Black Bombers Unveil ‘The Price’ Their Blistering New Single
Black Bombers have unveiled a new video from their forthcoming album Vive La Révolution – check it out!


Ruts DC premiere a new video – and their tour starts this week!
The first track on Ruts DC’s recent studio album ‘Counterculture?’ now has an excellent video to go with it – ‘Faces in the Sky’ introduces


LA Punk Garage Band Fidlar Are Set to Throw a Christmas Party in the Mojave Desert
Fidlar will be tearing the holiday season up with acoustic anthems, brand-new tunes, and a whole lot of Christmas chaos. Brace yourselves for a night


Album Review: Super Cassette’s LP ‘Continue?’
Oakland’s Super Cassette release their first full length LP which traverses sensitive ground around mental health and finding hope.
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.