What Is the Morse Code at the End of London Calling?

By Alice Nichols

Have you ever wondered what the mysterious Morse code at the end of “London Calling” by The Clash means? It’s a question that has puzzled music fans for decades. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the history of Morse code and decipher the message at the end of this iconic song.

What is Morse Code?

Morse code is a system of communication that uses dots, dashes, and spaces to represent letters, numbers, and symbols. It was invented in the early 1830s by Samuel Morse and Alfred Vail as a way to send messages over long distances using telegraph machines.

The system quickly became popular because it allowed messages to be sent faster than ever before. It was also used extensively during World War II by both Allied and Axis forces.

The Message in “London Calling”

At the end of “London Calling,” there is a series of beeps that spell out a message in Morse code. The message is: “This is Radio Clash”.

What Does it Mean?

Radio Clash was actually the name of a show on London’s Capital Radio in the late 1970s hosted by Mick Jones, who was The Clash’s lead guitarist. The show played an eclectic mix of music, from punk rock to reggae to hip hop.

The inclusion of this message in Morse code at the end of “London Calling” was a nod to Jones’ radio show and his influence on The Clash’s music.

The Legacy of “London Calling”

“London Calling” was released in 1979 and quickly became one of The Clash’s most popular songs. It has since been hailed as one of the greatest rock songs ever recorded and has inspired countless musicians over the years.

The use of Morse code at the end of the song adds an extra layer of intrigue and mystery to an already iconic track. It’s a testament to The Clash’s creativity and willingness to experiment with different forms of communication and expression.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Morse code at the end of “London Calling” is a message that pays tribute to Mick Jones’ radio show, Radio Clash. It adds an extra layer of intrigue to an already iconic song and showcases The Clash’s willingness to experiment with different forms of communication.

So, the next time you hear those beeps at the end of “London Calling,” you’ll know exactly what they mean and why they’re so important.