The Clash, The Kinks

LANE: So, um, what’s your band like?

DAVE: We do a lot of cool covers – uh, the Clash, the Kinks, et cetera.

The Clash, English rock band formed in 1976, previously mentioned. Billed as “The Only Band That Really Matters”, they were key players in the original wave of British punk rock, contributed to the post-punk and new-wave movements, and used elements of a range of genres, including reggae, funk, and rockabilly. Their classic line-up was Joe Strummer (lead vocals, rhythm guitar), Mick Jones (lead guitar, vocals), Paul Simonon (bass), and Nicky “Topper” Headon (drums). The Clash achieved critical and commercial in the UK with their first two albums The Clash (1977) and Give Them Enough Rope (1978). Their third album, London Calling, gained them success in the US; released in 1979 in the UK, it was released in 1980 in the US and was named the best album of the 1980s by Rolling Stone. Combat Rock (1982) was even more successful in the US. The band broke up in 1986. The Clash were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2003, shortly after the death of Joe Strummer. They are regarded as one of the best bands of all time.

The Kinks [pictured], English rock band formed in 1963 by brothers Ray and Dave Davies. Regarded as one of the most influential bands of the 1960s, they emerged during the period of British R&B and Merseybeat, and were briefly part of the British Invasion of the US, until they were banned from touring in America in 1965 because of their rowdy on-stage behaviour. Their 1964 single “You Really Got Me”, became an international hit, going to #1 in the UK and Top 10 in the US. The Kinks have had numerous hit singles in both the UK and US, and among numerous honours received the Ivor Novello Award for “Outstanding Service to British Music”. The original members of The Kinks were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1990, and the UK Music Hall of Fame in 2005.