CLASH BASS ON DISPLAY AT THE MUSEUM OF LONDON

Get ready to experience Clash bassist Paul Simonon’s smashed Fender Precision in its full glory at the Museum of London this summer.

Last played at The Palladium in New York City on the 20th September 1979 during The Clash’s ‘Take The 5th tour of North America’, Simonon’s iconic bass became a symbol of rebellion. Angered by an audience member sitting down and not dancing (a foreign concept in today’s COVID world), Simonon turned around and smashed his bass into pieces.

Were it not for photographer Pennie Smith, the monumental photo that covers the band’s third album London Calling would not exist today.

This artefact may stick out from the Roman mosaics and 15th-century altar paintings that make up the museum’s permanent collection, but that makes it all the more intriguing. You can view Simonon’s bass indefinitely from the 23rd July at the Museum of London’s World City gallery.

Tickets free with a general admission ticket which you can book here

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Words: Poppy Richler
@poppyrichler