EXCLUSIVE Podcasts: Redemption Song: The Ballad of Joe Strummer
Following in the footsteps of PopMatters‘ exclusive five-part series of excerpts from the new Joe Strummer biography in May, we now offer the podcast accompaniment. Chris Salewicz’s book, Redemption Song: The Ballad of Joe Strummer, is the most in-depth and in-the-know look ever at Strummer, a genuine rock and roll legend, as well as the history of the Clash. Pop these podcasts into your pod-like musical device or stream them right here. Then head over to Amazon post-haste and pick up this essential book for any music fan.
In the first installment, beginning with news of Strummer’s death, Salewicz remembers Joe’s drive, humor, and constant internal conflict.
Part One: Straight to Heaven — 2002 [MP3]
Hop aboard the Anarchy tour bus for an exclusive ride with everyman’s thinking man and his smart band: the Clash’s first tour, first single, and their first album.
Part Two: Under Heavy Manners — 1976-1977 [MP3]
Strummer hangs with Warhol; Thatcher comes to power, and after a lot of sweaty work in a shadowy space in the back of a garage, London Calling is unveiled like a gleaming, bad-ass drag racer.
Part Three: Red Hand of Fate — 1979 [MP3]
Megavitamins and beer, egos and conflict, Combat Rock goes on tour and Mick Jones gets the (combat) boot.
Part Four: Anger Was Cooler — 1982-1984 [MP3]
Earthquake Weather sets Strummer wandering solo through his “wilderness years” in the not so barren climate of Southern California.
Part Five: On the Other Hand… — 1988-1989 [MP3]
Joe Strummer and The Mescaleros – Redemption Song