Home / Arts and Entertainment / The Clash's Infamous 'Cut the Crap' Album Turns 40: A Legendary Flop That Ended a Band
The Clash's Infamous 'Cut the Crap' Album Turns 40: A Legendary Flop That Ended a Band
9 Nov
Summary
- 'Cut the Crap' was the Clash's final album, released in 1985 and instantly repudiated by the band
- The album was a critical and commercial disaster, leading to the permanent dissolution of the iconic punk group
- Joe Strummer blamed the album's failure on the band's manager, Bernie Rhodes, who replaced the band with drum machines and synths
As the Clash's infamous final album 'Cut the Crap' turns 40 in November 2025, the story of the band's dramatic downfall continues to captivate music fans. Released in 1985, 'Cut the Crap' was a critical and commercial disaster that permanently ended the iconic punk group.
The Clash had previously enjoyed a string of classic albums, from their raw 1977 debut to the sprawling masterpiece 'Sandinista!' in 1980. However, in a shocking move in 1983, lead singer Joe Strummer kicked out guitarist Mick Jones, the band's primary songwriter. Strummer and bassist Paul Simonon then hired a new, unknown backing band, a decision that would prove disastrous.
On 'Cut the Crap,' Strummer and the band's manager, Bernie Rhodes, replaced the Clash's signature sound with drum machines and synthesizers, resulting in a total mess of failed radical anthems. Strummer later admitted he "hated" the album, blaming Rhodes for the production. The album's failure led to the permanent dissolution of the Clash, though their legacy as one of the greatest punk acts of the 1970s and 80s remains intact.
In the aftermath, Strummer retired the Clash name and spent the rest of his life avoiding the spotlight. Meanwhile, Jones found success with his new band Big Audio Dynamite, further highlighting the Clash's downfall. Though the band never reunited, their refusal to cash in on their name only enhanced their reputation as principled artists. By the time Strummer passed away in 2002 at the age of 50, he was one of the most beloved and respected figures in music.
