You’re probably weary of reading about unofficial, arbitrary “holidays” that are meant to promote a product, activity, or category like National Tequila Day, National Balloon Ascension Day (no really), National Hot Tea Day, etc. But in an age when recognized federal holidays like Martin Luther King Jr. Day and International Women’s Day are in danger of being redacted, it feels more fitting than ever to celebrate February 7th as International Clash Day, and sip a London Calling while you’re treating your ears.

Sure. It sounds like just another of those made-up days. And it is. Except for those of us who grew up listening to the influential English rock band The Clash, a day dedicated to playing their music — and that of other artists who share the band’s ethos — feels welcome in the doldrums of winter.

The Clash were formed in London in 1976 by rhythm guitarist and vocalist Joe Strummer, bassist Paul Simonon*, lead guitarist and singer Mick Jones, and drummer Nicky “Topper” Headron. Their sound is often casually labeled as “punk” but the music is tinged with sophisticated elements of jazz, reggae, ska, funk, new wave, and rockabilly. Though catchy and often bombastic, their songs — such as “White Riot”, “The Guns of Brixton”, “Police On My Back”, and “Spanish Bombs” and notable covers like “Police and Thieves”, “I Fought the Law”, and “Armagideon Time” — are recognized for their sensitivity to human struggles of the late 1970s and 80s. At a time when themes of ongoing racial division, social standing, and international politics were obscured with easy, bubblegum pop on Top 40 radio, The Clash’s output made those marginalized by society feel seen. For others, it was just damn good music. And that’s OK too.