The Clash consists of Joe Strummer (rhythm guitar, vocals), Mick Jones (lead guitar, vocals), Paul Simonon (bass guitar), Topper Headon (drummer).
The Clash was one of the most successful British punk rock groups that existed from 1976 to 1986. They incorporated punk, reggae, rockabilly, and eventually many other music styles into their repertoire, and displayed a political and lyrical sophistication that distinguished them from most of their colleagues in the punk genre. They were also legendary for uncommonly intense stage performances.
From their earliest days as a band, The Clash stood apart from their peers with their musicianship, as well as their lyrics; the passionate, righteous political idealism in the lyrics by frontmen Joe Strummer and Mick Jones was a definite contrast to the nihilism of the Sex Pistols and the simplicity of The Ramones.
The Clash has influenced pop punk, alternative rock and Britpop bands, through both their musical style and their lyrical content. Their incorporation of many musical styles has also led them to influence reggae, ska, hip hop and electronic artists.
The Main Lineup Joe Strummer - rhythm guitar, lead vocals (1976-1985) Mick Jones - lead guitar, vocals (1976-1983) Paul Simonon - bass guitar, vocals (1976-1985) Topper Headon - drums and percussion (1977-1982)
Other Members Keith Levene - lead guitar (1976) Nick Sheppard - guitar (1983-1985) Vince White - guitar (1983-1985) Terry Chimes - drums (1976-1977, 1982-1983) Pete Howard - drums (1983-1985)
Originally composed of Joe Strummer, Mick Jones, Paul Simonon, Keith Levene and Terry Chimes (credited on the first LP as "Tory Crimes"), the Clash formed in London in 1976 during the first wave of British punk. Levene (later of Public Image Limited) was an early guitarist and songwriter with The Clash, but he never recorded with the band and left under ambiguous circumstances after only five gigs.