Complete Control
The Clash
Become A Better Singer In Only 30 Days, With Easy Video Lessons!
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!
Become A Better Singer In Only 30 Days, With Easy Video Lessons!
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.
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Chart PerformanceNot only did the song reach number 28 on the UK Singles Chart, it is also the band's first top 30 hit.
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Social CommentaryThe lyrics of "Complete Control" reflect The Clash's disapproval of the heavy-handed management tactics of their record label, CBS.
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Behind the MusicThe 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.
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Critical Acclaim"Complete Control" was ranked at number 8 on NME's list of the 200 Greatest Singles of All Time.
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Legendary ProducerThe song was produced by renowned reggae artist Lee "Scratch" Perry, and it was their only collaboration.
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Studio Recording"Complete Control" was recorded at Sarm East Studios, a recording studio located in London's East End.
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Album ReleaseDespite 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.
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Cultural ImpactRolling Stone magazine named "Complete Control" as one of the 500 greatest songs of all time in 2004.
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Live PerformancesDuring live shows, the band often extended "Complete Control" into a longer jam, showing off their tight musicianship and highlighting their punk ethos.
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Music VideoAn official music video was recorded and released for "Complete Control," further solidifying the track's status as one of The Clash's standout songs.
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Pioneering PunkThe song remains a masterclass in punk culture, celebrated for its aggressive guitars, rebellious lyrics, and raw energy.
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"Complete Control Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 4 May 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/7731191/The+Clash/Complete+Control>.
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