DALLAS, TX.- The Clash regularly was called "The Only Band That Matters” when still together, and for many in search of the world's truths, it still is. Fronted by Joe Strummer with guitarist/vocalist Mick Jones, bassist Paul Simonon, and drummer Topper Headon (for most of the band's existence), The Clash came from the London punk rock scene and grew into its own genre with each subsequent album it made.

What originally was planned to be eight shows at the 1,800-capacity venue near Times Square in New York City turned into 17 shows over the course of three weeks due to an overwhelming demand for tickets.

Heritage Auctions will feature a 1981 poster for the Clash's legendary run of shows at the Bond International Casino (aka, "Bonds”), signed by various New York street graffiti artists, in its Dec. 6 Entertainment & Music Memorabilia Online Auction.

"If you know much about The Clash's history, you're well aware of how critical and legendary these shows were,” Heritage Auctions' Entertainment Cataloger Eric Grubbs said. "When I unrolled this in the office, my jaw immediately went to the floor.”

The Clash was at a critical turning point in 1981. Having released four albums, the band's members proved repeatedly that they were not afraid to break out of the parameters of punk rock, by infusing reggae and hip-hop into their political and personal tunes. When the shows at Bonds were planned, the band promoted its 36-song triple-LP, Sandinista! Not one to be conservative or be modest about its budding worldwide popularity, the band wanted to give people a chance to see it perform, and these shows at Bonds beautifully represented that.

This large (42-by-58-inch) poster in particular was signed with various felt tips, featuring various New York graffiti artists throughout. The band's members were fascinated by the hip-hop sound and aesthetic, which boomed through the city at the time. Though the members of The Clash did not sign the poster, the inclusion of all these graffiti artists' signatures shows how the band was for the people, and by the people.




The poster is accompanied by a letter of authenticity from Pearl E. Gates, who DJ-ed the event.

Other auction highlights include, but are not limited to:

• The Allman Brothers Band Checks Signed by Duane Allman and Berry Oakley (1970)

• Roger Waters Signed Pink Floyd The Dark Side of the Moon Vinyl LP (SMAS-11163)

• Jefferson Airplane Signed Volunteers Vinyl LP Sleeve (RCA, LSP-4238)

• Iggy Pop Signed Raw Power Reissue Vinyl LP (Sundazed/Columbia LP 5269)

• Pearl Jam Signed Promo Photo