Death or Glory

There's something in *Death or Glory* that resonates in a very direct way, almost like a cry of defiance. The song, written by Joe Strummer and Mick Jones, seems to be a critical look at that old guard of rock that promised not to yield to the passage of time. It is said that the initial melody was imagined by Strummer on the piano, inspired by *As Time Goes By*, that piece heard in the movie *Casablanca*. It's interesting to think about that connection, a nod to something classic that transforms into this track by The Clash. The recording itself had its particular moment: the producer, Guy Stevens, entered the studio and, in front of CBS executives, began throwing chairs against the wall. An act of pure energy, perhaps reflecting the rawness sought in the performance.

*London Calling*, the album that includes *Death or Glory*, was recorded at Wessex Sound Studios in London over a period of about five or six weeks, beginning in August 1979. This record marked an evolution for The Clash, going beyond punk to incorporate a variety of styles such as reggae, rockabilly, and jazz. In *Death or Glory*, that exploration can be felt. The recording engineer was Bill Price, and the producer, Guy Stevens, who brought that intensity to the session. The song has been recognized for its structure, with a chord progression and melody that some consider among the most accomplished in the band's career, and it stands out for being one of their rawest and most emotional performances.