The Clash
The Clash Live Performance of 'What's My Name' at Roskilde Festival
The live performance of "What's My Name" on June 30, 1985, at the Roskilde Festival in Denmark captures The Clash during a fascinating and tumultuous time in their career. By this point, they had just released their fifth studio album, "Cut the Crap," in late 1985. This recording showcases the band in what many refer to as "Clash II," emphasizing the post-Joe Strummer dynamics that emerged after their original lineup had shifted dramatically. It's intriguing to note how, despite the changes and tensions within the band, Paul Simonon still commands attention with his vocals, albeit with a bit of a rough edge, which many fans saw as emblematic of that era's energy. Plus, the context of this live performance—captured at a major festival—highlights their lingering influence in punk rock, even amidst the battles and controversies that came with their punk roots and commercial aspirations. The Clash, despite all odds, still held their ground, and this rare footage is a testament to their resilience and spirit.