I Fought the Law (1988) re-release

In March 1988, The Clash re-released their cover of "I Fought the Law" to promote their compilation album The Story of the Clash, Volume 1. Originally featured on their 1979 EP The Cost of Living, the song was issued in various formats, including 7-inch, 12-inch, and CD singles. These releases included B-sides like "City of the Dead", "Police on My Back", and "48 Hours". The reissue featured distinctive cover art with a monochrome photo of the band and bold typography. 

The 1988 re-release achieved commercial success, entering the UK Singles Chart at number 48 on March 6, 1988, and peaking at number 29 on March 20, 1988. It remained on the chart for six weeks. 

For collectors and fans, the 1988 reissue is notable for its distinctive cover art and the inclusion of classic B-sides. The 12-inch vinyl single, catalog number CLASH T1, is a sought-after item among enthusiasts. You can explore various editions and track listings on Discogs.





New Musical Express, 5 March 1988. Review by Steven Wells.

Single of the Week – The Clash: I Fought The Law

SINGLE OF THE WEEK!

THE CLASH: I Fought The Law (CBS) The Rock Rebels who shot pigeons! They just didn’t care! The best drumming on any record ever. Too many spliffs and not enough haircuts knackered this ‘greatest band in the history of blah blah blah’ but not before they had hammered out some classic rock'n'roll.

Like Sid’s incredible Cochran covers, The Clash’s punkrockabilly anthems circa ‘Give Us Some More Dope’ and half of ‘London Calling’ are moments to be treasured.

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Strummer with Oz punk





"HIGH-CLASH STUFF! The Clash — I Fought The Law (CBS): Review." Telegraph & Argus, Saturday, March 5, 1988, p. 20. By Chris Maguire.

HIGH-CLASH STUFF! The Clash — I Fought The Law (CBS)

THE CLASHI Fought The Law (CBS): It may be a cover version, it may be a re-release, but it still stands head and shoulders above the morass around. ★★★★

GREAT STUFF ... from Joe Strummer, lead singer, and the lads in The Clash.

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Melody Maker, Advert "I Fought the Law", 12 March 1988

Enlarge image - The Clash enter the digital age




New Musical Express, Advert "I Fought the Law", 5 March 1988, page 32








CBS - Nederland

I Fought the Law press release

Enlarge press release. Also Sandinista! cassete release





Advertisement, NME, Music Advertising, I Fought the Law, 12 March 1988, p.unknown

I Fought The Law – The Clash


Advert: CBS - I Fought The Law THE CLASH
The first ever CLASH C.D. Single
A four track C.D.
A classic from ‘The Story Of The Clash’
CD CLASH 1

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Advertisement, Music Advertising, I Fought the Law, March 1988, p.unknown

I Fought The Law – The Clash

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