In the late 1970s, British punk rock band The Clash was working on their third studio album. The album, which would go on to become one of the most iconic punk albums of all time, was originally going to be called “The Last Testament” or “The New Testament.” However, the band ultimately decided to name the album “London Calling,” a decision that came with its own set of controversies and challenges.
The Controversy Surrounding “London Calling”
At the time of its release in 1979, “London Calling” was seen as a controversial album title. Some critics saw it as a reference to London’s growing punk scene, which was often associated with violence and social unrest. Others saw it as a political statement against the conservative government of Margaret Thatcher.
Despite these controversies, “London Calling” went on to become one of the most critically acclaimed albums of all time. Rolling Stone magazine ranked it as one of the 500 greatest albums ever made, and it has been praised for its mix of punk rock energy and diverse musical influences.
What Was The Album Going To Be Called?
Before settling on “London Calling,” The Clash considered several other titles for their third album. One early contender was “The Last Testament,” which guitarist Mick Jones had suggested as a reference to The Bible. Another possibility was “The New Testament,” which would have continued this religious theme.
However, these titles were eventually deemed too controversial by both the band and their label. Instead, they began brainstorming new ideas that would capture the spirit of their music and their hometown.
The Story Behind The Final Choice
According to legend, drummer Topper Headon suggested the name “London Calling” after seeing an apocalyptic headline in a local newspaper. The headline read “London Calling To The Faraway Towns,” and Headon thought it would make a great title for the album.
The band loved the idea, and they quickly got to work on creating the iconic cover art for the album. The image, which features bassist Paul Simonon smashing his guitar on stage, has become one of the most recognizable images in punk rock history.
Conclusion
In conclusion, “London Calling” was almost called “The Last Testament” or “The New Testament” before ultimately settling on its iconic name. While controversial at the time, the album has gone on to become one of the most celebrated punk albums of all time and a testament to The Clash’s enduring legacy.
9 Related Question Answers Found
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