Rudie Can't Fail

The Clash

About Rudie Can't Fail

"Rudie Can't Fail" is a song by the English punk rock band The Clash, featured on their 1979 album London Calling. The song was written by Joe Strummer and Mick Jones, who sing it as a duet.


Year:
1997
3:31
243 
#3

 Watch: New Singing Lesson Videos Can Make Anyone A Great Singer

Now, sing, Michael, sing
On the route of the nineteen bus
We hear them sayin'

How you get a rude and a reckless?
Don't you be so crude and feckless
You been drinking brew for breakfast
Rudie can't fail (no, no)

We reply

I know that my life make you nervous
But I tell you I can't live in service
Like the doctor who was born for a purpose
Rudie can't fail (ok)

I went to the market to realize my soul
What I need I just don't have (oh no)
First they curse, then they press me 'til I hurt
They say, Rudie can't fail

First you must cure your temper
Then find a job in a paper
You need someone for a savior
Rudie can't fail

We reply

Now we get a rude and a reckless
To be seen lookin' cool an' speckless
And drinking brew for breakfast
Rudie can't fail (no, no, no)

I went to the market to realize my soul
'Cause what I need I just don't have
First they curse, then they press me 'til I hurt
Rudie can't fail

Okay! Okay!
So where you want to go today?
Hey, boss man!
You're looking pretty smart
(Chicken skin suit) with your chicken skin suit
You think you're pretty hot
(Pork pie hat) In the pork pie hat

Rudie can't fail
Rudie can't fail
Rudie can't fail
Rudie can't fail
Rudie can't fail
Rudie can't fail
Rudie can't fail
Rudie can't fail
Rudie can't fail
Rudie can't fail
Rudie can't fail
Rudie can't fail

 Become A Better Singer In Only 30 Days, With Easy Video Lessons!


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


10 facts about this song

Background
"Rudie Can't Fail" is a song by the British punk rock band, The Clash. It forms part of the band’s third studio album, ‘London Calling.’ The song has since become a fan favorite, showcasing a fusion of the band’s distinctive punk rock sound with elements of reggae and ska.
Release year
"Rudie Can't Fail" was released on 14th December 1979, as part of "London Calling" album, which is regarded as one of The Clash's finest records.
Songwriting credits
The song was written by the dynamic punk rock duo Joe Strummer and Mick Jones, who were members of The Clash. The pair often collaborated on their songs, creating an array of influential punk rock hits.
Theme behind the song
"Rudie Can't Fail" refers to the Rudie, a term originating from Jamaican street culture. A 'Rudie' or 'rude boy' was a rebellious youth who often found himself battling against society's expectations. The song reflects the band's solidarity with these rebellious youth and their defiance against societal norms.
Reggae Influence
"Rudie Can't Fail" showcases The Clash's love for reggae music. The song highlights the band's ability to merge their iconic punk rock style with elements from other genres. The Clash were well known for their eclectic sound which did not confine to a single music style.
Popularity
Like many Clash songs, "Rudie Can't Fail" did not initially hit the charts, but has since become one of their most popular songs. The band's impact goes beyond chart success, significantly influencing future generations of rock musicians.
Cover Versions
Over the years "Rudie Can't Fail" has been covered by multiple artists and bands. One of the most notable was by the rock band No Doubt, known for their ska-punk sound, who performed the song live as part of a Clash tribute.
Film Appearance
"Rudie Can't Fail" has also appeared in multiple films and TV soundtracks, such as in the 2004 film "Club Dread", thereby enhancing its reach and popularity.
Critical Acclaim
Despite not becoming a mainstream chart hit, "Rudie Can't Fail" has long been recognized by fans and critics alike for its unique blending of punk and reggae, as well as its lyrical content. It's often mentioned as one of the standout tracks on the iconic 'London Calling' album.
Album Artwork
The cover art of London Calling, featuring bassist Paul Simonon smashing his Fender Precision Bass against the stage, has become one of the most iconic images in rock music. "Rudie Can't Fail" contributes to the rebellious and anti-establishment ethos captured in this image.

Discuss the Rudie Can't Fail Lyrics with the community:

0 Comments

    Citation

    Use the citation below to add these lyrics to your bibliography:

    Style:MLAChicagoAPA

    "Rudie Can't Fail Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 28 Mar. 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/1428499/The+Clash/Rudie+Can%27t+Fail>.

    Missing lyrics by The Clash?

    Know any other songs by The Clash? Don't keep it to yourself!

    Watch the song video

    Rudie Can't Fail

    1.3M
    8,194     215

    Browse Lyrics.com

    Quiz

    Are you a music master?

    »
    The English rock band "Oasis" is composed of?
    A 6 artists
    B 4 artists
    C 5 artists
    D 3 artists

    Free, no signup required:

    Add to Chrome

    Get instant explanation for any lyrics that hits you anywhere on the web!

    Free, no signup required:

    Add to Firefox

    Get instant explanation for any acronym or abbreviation that hits you anywhere on the web!

    Don't miss The Clash's

    Upcoming Events

    »
    The Clash tracks

    On Radio Right Now

    Loading...

    Powered by OnRad.io


    Think you know music? Test your MusicIQ here!

    Movies soundtrack

    Rudie Can't Fail

    »