Complete Control

The Clash

About Complete Control

"Complete Control" is a song by The Clash, released as a 7" single and featured on the U. S. release of their debut album.


Year:
1977
3:46
43 
#1

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They said release 'Remote Control'
But we didn't want it on the label
They said, "Fly to Amsterdam"
The people laughed but the press went mad

Ooh ooh ooh someone's really smart
Ooh ooh ooh complete control, that's a laugh

On the last tour my mates couldn't get in
I'd open up the back door but they'd get run out again
At every hotel we was met by the Law
Come for the party - come to make sure!

Ooh ooh ooh have we done something wrong?
Ooh ooh ooh complete control, even over this song

They said we'd be artistically free
When we signed that bit of paper
They meant let's make a lotsa mon-ee
An' worry about it later

Ooh ooh ooh I'll never understand
Ooh ooh ooh complete control - lemme see your other hand!

All over the news spread fast
They're dirty, they're filthy
They ain't gonna last!

This is Joe Public speaking
I'm controlled in the body, controlled in the mind

Total
See-o-n control - that means you!

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The Clash

The Clash were an English punk rock band that formed in 1976 as part of the original wave of British punk. Along with punk, their music incorporated elements of reggae, ska, dub, funk, rap, dance, and rockabilly. For most of their recording career, the Clash consisted of Joe Strummer (lead vocals, rhythm guitar), Mick Jones (lead guitar, vocals), Paul Simonon (bass guitar, vocals) and Nicky "Topper" Headon (drums, percussion). Headon left the group in 1982, and internal friction led to Jones's departure the following year. The group continued with new members, but finally disbanded in early 1986. more »

6 fans

Written by: Joe Strummer, Mick Jones, Paul Simonon, Topper Headon

Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


12 facts about this song

Release Details
"Complete Control" was released as a 7-inch single in 1977, becoming a staple of The Clash's explosive punk sound.
Chart Performance
Not only did the song reach number 28 on the UK Singles Chart, it is also the band's first top 30 hit.
Social Commentary
The lyrics of "Complete Control" reflect The Clash's disapproval of the heavy-handed management tactics of their record label, CBS.
Behind the Music
The song was written by Joe Strummer and Mick Jones, members of The Clash, as a direct response to the record company releasing "Remote Control" without the band's approval.
Critical Acclaim
"Complete Control" was ranked at number 8 on NME's list of the 200 Greatest Singles of All Time.
Legendary Producer
The song was produced by renowned reggae artist Lee "Scratch" Perry, and it was their only collaboration.
Studio Recording
"Complete Control" was recorded at Sarm East Studios, a recording studio located in London's East End.
Album Release
Despite its success as a single, "Complete Control" wasn't included in the UK version of The Clash's debut album. However, it was later added to the U.S. release.
Cultural Impact
Rolling Stone magazine named "Complete Control" as one of the 500 greatest songs of all time in 2004.
Live Performances
During live shows, the band often extended "Complete Control" into a longer jam, showing off their tight musicianship and highlighting their punk ethos.
Music Video
An official music video was recorded and released for "Complete Control," further solidifying the track's status as one of The Clash's standout songs.
Pioneering Punk
The song remains a masterclass in punk culture, celebrated for its aggressive guitars, rebellious lyrics, and raw energy.

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