Joe Strummer | |
---|---|
Background information | |
Birth name | John Graham Mellor |
Born |
Ankara, Turkey |
21 August 1952
Died | 22 December 2002 Broomfield, Somerset, England |
(aged 50)
Genres | Punk rock, alternative rock, world music, reggae, ska, rockabilly, funk, folk |
Occupation(s) | Musician, songwriter, radio host, actor |
Instruments | Vocals, guitar, piano |
Years active | 1970–2002 |
Labels | CBS, Sony, Hellcat, Mercury |
Associated acts | The 101ers, The Clash, The Latino Rockabilly War, The Pogues, The Mescaleros |
Notable instruments | |
1966 Fender Telecaster Gretsch White Falcon Hofner guitar Fender Esquire |
John Graham Mellor (21 August 1952 – 22 December 2002), known by his stage name Joe Strummer, was an English musician, singer, actor and songwriter who was the co-founder, lyricist, rhythm guitarist and lead vocalist of The Clash, a punk rock band formed in 1976 as part of the original wave of British punk.
Their second album, Give 'Em Enough Rope (1978) reached number 2 on the UK charts. Soon after, they achieved success in the US, starting with London Calling (1979), and peaking with 1982's Combat Rock, reaching number 7 on the US charts and being certified 2× platinum there. The Clash's politicised lyrics, musical experimentation, and rebellious attitude had a far-reaching influence on rock, and alternative rock in particular. Their music incorporated reggae, ska, dub, funk, rap, and rockabilly.
Strummer's musical experience included stints with the 101ers, Latino Rockabilly War, the Mescaleros, and the Pogues, in addition to his own solo music career. His work as a musician allowed him to explore other interests, including acting, creating film scores for television and movies, songwriting, radio broadcasting, and a position as a radio host on a BBC show titled "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 a non-profit Strummerville now known as The Joe Strummer Foundation which gives opportunities to musicians and support to projects around the world that create empowerment through music.