THE CLASH - HITSVILLE U.K.

Released: January 16, 1981

Charted:  UK: #56 

"Hitsville U.K." is a track from their 1980 album Sandinista!. It's a notable song on the album and serves as the second single released from it. The title pays homage to Motown Records, known for its legendary hits, by referencing its nickname "Hitsville U.S.A." attributed to its headquarters in Detroit. 

Ellen Foley's collaborate with, then boyfriend, Mick Jones on the track. As Foley mentioned, the recording process was enjoyable and relaxed, and her vocals added a distinctive touch to the track. The song's lighthearted nature and its homage to Motown's "Hitsville U.S.A." resonated with Foley, who appreciated the reference to her American roots and her admiration for Motown's iconic sound. 

"Hitsville U.K." served as a hymn to music, reflecting the band's critique of the commercialized music industry of the time. The song's lyrics and themes highlighted the dominance of corporate-controlled radio stations, known for playing predominantly mainstream and commercially driven music. The Clash lamented the lack of diversity and artistic integrity in radio programming, which often prioritized profit over public interest and artistic expression.

In the context of the era, where radio was the primary medium for music consumption, "Hitsville U.K." served as a protest against the calcification and commercialization of the industry. The band's disdain for the corporate influence on radio stations and their frustration with the lack of alternative voices in the music scene are evident throughout the song. "Hitsville U.K." can be seen as The Clash's call for change and their desire to reclaim music from the hands of corporate interests.

Despite its critical overtones toward the music industry, the Motown-inspired beat, combined with the harmonious duet of Mick Jones and Ellen Foley, lead to "Hitsville U.K." to be considered one of the most optimistic, hopeful and idealistic Clash tracks of all time, although also hated by their most idealized fans in the most punk aspect of the band.