The Clash, Should I Stay or Should I Go | Throwback Vibez

In the 48th edition of Throwback Vibez (2025), we recollect and reflect on “Should I Stay or Should I Go” by The Clash.   

The vibes, the vibes, those Throwback Vibez ! Throwback Vibez is a column that celebrates awesome songs from the past.  The records that grace this column are older, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re ancient – no fossils ! All genres of music are welcome. In the 48^th edition of Throwback Vibez ️ (2025), we recollect and reflect on “Should I Stay or Should I Go” performed by The Clash.

“Should I stay, or should I go now?”  That is a key question for The Clash, an English rock band comprised of the late Joe Strummer (1952 – 2002), Mick Jones (1955 – ), Paul Simonon (1955 – ), and Topper Headon (1955 – ). Among the band’s most beloved songs is “Should I Stay or Should I Go”,  the third track on their 1982 multiplatinum, fifth studio album, Combat Rock.  In the chorus, Jones, who sings lead on this particular track, continues, “If I go, there will be trouble / And if I stay, it will be double / So come on and let me know.”  “Should I Stay or Should I Go” was written by Jones and Strummer.” Notably, it peaked at number 45 on the Billboard Hot 100.

So, what makes “Should I Stay or Should I Go” kick ass and take names? It begins with heavy, hard-rocking guitar and bass riffs. The spirit of rock and roll is written all over it ! It is anchored by a superb groove carried by Topper’s mean drumming. Headon provides a signature groove contrast with the double time feel during the chorus. The songwriting is infectious, with Jones bringing the memorable lyrics and tuneful melodies to life.  Matters of the heart drive the narrative.  “Darling, you got to let me know / Should I stay, or should I go?” Jones asks continuing in the first verse, “If you say that you are mine / I’ll be here till the end of time.” In the second verse, he asserts, “It’s always tease, tease, tease / You’re happy when I’m on my knees.” The third includes Spanish! “This indecision’s bugging me (Esta indecisión me molesta) / If you don’t want me, set me free (Si no me quieres, librarme).” A rock classic, the brilliance and timelessness of “Should I Stay or Should I Go” speaks for itself.

The Clash // Combat Rock // Sony Music Entertainment UK Limited // 1982

The Clash, Should I Stay or Should I Go: Throwback Vibez ️ No. 48 (2025) [: Brent Faulkner / The Musical Hype; Sony Music Entertainment UK Limited; AcatXlo, OpenClipart-Vectors, Clker-Free-Vector-Images, Speedy McVroom from Pixabay]