Revealing the True Meanings Behind These Misunderstood Songs

‘London Calling’ – The Clash

Though it has developed to take on a broader meaning, including the popular interpretation that it is an indictment of British politics and foreign affairs, this song was originally about something much simpler. In 1979, a British newspaper printed a headline warning that, with rapid global warning, the Thames river could overflow and flood London. When Mick Jones discovered this, he (in his words) “flipped.” As a result, the song is about a dread of drowning rather than politics.

‘London Calling’ The Clash