Rapido

“Rapido” was a music and culture television programme created by Antoine de Caunes, originally produced for French TV and later adapted by the BBC as part of their BBC2 lineup in the late 1980s. The show was known for its quick editing, cosmopolitan attitude, and wide-ranging coverage of international music, often featuring interviews and performances from notable artists.

Joe Strummer appeared on “Rapido” in a segment first aired in France in 1988 and later broadcast in the UK on BBC2 (with listings showing 21 October 1989). In this brief but insightful three-minute interview, Strummer reflected on the generational shifts occurring in music at the time, expressed admiration for The Pogues and their frontman Shane MacGowan, and gave candid thoughts on the increasing commercialization of the music industry. The segment captured Strummer’s wit, candor, and commitment to authenticity—qualities for which he was renowned both as the frontman of The Clash and as a solo artist.

The “Rapido” feature is often referenced by fans and music historians for its honest snapshot of Strummer’s post-Clash era, his connections with emerging acts like The Pogues, and his continued influence on the alternative music scene. While the exact original broadcast is from French TV in 1988, UK TV guides list the repeat (with the segment featuring Strummer, Jazzie B, Chris Isaak, and Teddy Riley) on BBC2 at 5:50 pm on 21 October 1989.

“Joe Strummer Interview.” Rapido, French TV, 1988, Broadcast 21 October 1989 on BBC2

Rapido, French TV

Aired in 1988 on French show Rapido, this brief but revealing 3-minute segment finds Joe Strummer reflecting on generational change, his admiration for The Pogues and Shane MacGowan, and his view on the commercialization of music.

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1989 10 20 The Hinckley Times Fri ·Page 33.jpg

BBC TWO – Rapido: Featuring Joe Strummer

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1989 10 21 Evening Herald Sat ·Page 20.jpg

BBC 2 RAPIDO: Joe Strummer, Jazzie B, Chris Isaak and Teddy Riley

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