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,
dub,
funk,
ska and
rockabilly. For most of their recording career the Clash consisted of
Joe Strummer (lead vocals, rhythm guitar),
Mick Jones (lead guitar, lead 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.