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Joe Strummer

Aug 21, 1952 - Dec 22, 2002 (50 years old) in Ankara, Turkey

John Graham Mellor (21 August 1952 – 22 December 2002), known professionally as Joe Strummer, was a British musician. He was the co-founder, lyricist, rhythm guitarist, and lead vocalist of punk rock band the Clash, formed in 1976. The Clash's second studio album, Give 'Em Enough Rope (1978), reached No. 2 on the UK charts. Soon after, they achieved success in the US, starting with London Calling (1979) and peaking with Combat Rock (1982), which reached No. 7 on the US charts and was certified 2× platinum there. The Clash's explosive political lyrics, musical experimentation, and rebellious attitude greatly influenced rock music in general, especially alternative rock. Their music incorporated punk with reggae, ska, dub, funk, rap and rockabilly.

Strummer's other career highlights included stints with the 101ers, the Latino Rockabilly War, the Mescaleros and the Pogues, as well as solo music. His work as a musician allowed him to explore other interests such as acting, scoring television shows and films, and hosting the BBC Radio show London Calling. Strummer and the Clash were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in January 2003. In his remembrance, Strummer's friends and family established the Joe Strummer Foundation (initially known as Strummerville), a non-profit organisation that gives opportunities to musicians and supports projects around the world that create empowerment through music.

Known For

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South Park
Joe Strummer (voice)
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Here to be Heard: The Story of The Slits
Self (archive footage)
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The Clash: The Rise and Fall of The Clash
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End of the Century: The Story of the Ramones
Self
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Concerts for the People of Kampuchea
Self
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Completely Pogued
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US Festival 1983 Days 1-3
Self - The Clash
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The Way They Were: Punk and the New Wave 1976-1978
Self
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Dispatches from Nicaragua
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25 Years of Punk
Self

Credits