VIDEO: THIS IS VIDEO CLASH

There was a time when The Clash were deemed "The Only Band That Matters" and judging from this 1980 footage of the band on ABC's Fridays, that distinction could still hold true. Cited as the band's first US television appearance, this footage would introduce the band to a whole new audience and what an introduction it is. Strummer starts off with a powerhouse version of "London Calling," Jones steps up next for "Train In Vain" and Simonon plays guitar on "Guns Of Brixton" while Strummer fills in on bass. A triple front attack with Topper Headon delivering the heavy artillery from behind. The band flexes it's unified might closing out with "Clampdown." Watch it.

The Clash's 1981 performances at Bond's Casino in NYC are now legend - after promoters oversold the event, the band played 17 shows to make sure everyone who bought at ticket got to see the band. Filmmaker Don Letts documented the occasion in his film "The Clash On Broadway" but the complete film has long since been lost to time. The below video of "Safe European Home" is one of the few remains of the full film and proves yet again just how amazing The Clash were in a live setting.



To round it all out is a interview by WNBC 4 New York's Sue Simmons with Joe and Paul one year after the Bond's performances.



(via Dangerous Minds)