The Clash’s hit song “Should I Stay or Should I Go” took an unexpected journey to the top of the charts, a tale that spans nearly a decade. Released in 1982 as part of their LP “Combat Rock,” the track, penned by band member Mick Jones, initially ranked at No. 45 on Billboard’s Top 100 in the United States and was released alongside “Straight to Hell.”
Despite its modest success in both the U.S. and the U.K., the song failed to make a lasting impression on listeners. It wasn’t until nine years later, in 1991, that “Should I Stay or Should I Go” skyrocketed to the top spot on the British charts after being featured in a Levi’s Jeans commercial, as reported by Far Out Magazine.
Jones, the song’s writer, had the final say in allowing its use for commercial purposes, turning down previous offers from Dr. Pepper and British Telecom. Ultimately, he saw the benefit in aligning the song with a rock music institution like Levi’s Jeans.
The commercial’s popularity introduced “Should I Stay or Should I Go” to a new generation of fans, leading to its resurgence on the U.K. charts in March 1991, even though The Clash had disbanded five years prior in 1986.
With its unexpected rise to success, “Should I Stay or Should I Go” defied the odds and solidified its place as a timeless classic in music history.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.