"I came into this whole business by going to see Rock Against Racism gigs with the Clash"

This quote by Billy Bragg encapsulates the transformative journey of a musician and activist whose profession and individual approach were profoundly affected by the social and cultural climate of his developmental years. To totally appreciate the depth of this statement, it is vital to understand the context of Rock Versus Bigotry (RAR) and the impact of bands like The Clash during that period.

Rock Against Racism was a political and cultural motion that emerged in the United Kingdom in the late 1970s as a reaction against the increase of reactionary ideologies and racially motivated violence. This movement sought to unite people through music, utilizing concerts and occasions to promote anti-racist messages and celebrate variety. The Clash, understood for their politically charged lyrics and punk principles, was among the popular bands that supported and performed at RAR occasions. Their music resonated with styles of rebellion, social justice, and racial harmony, and they ended up being icons of resistance against the dominating socio-political issues.

For Billy Bragg, a growing artist from Barking, East London, going to these gigs was not just a musical experience however a turning point of political awakening. The effective mix of music and advocacy at RAR events offered Bragg with both motivation and a blueprint for his own profession. He saw direct how music could be wielded as a tool for social modification, an awareness that deeply affected his creative instructions and lyrical content.

Basically, when Bragg says, "I entered this whole business by going to see Rock Against Racism gigs with the Clash", he is acknowledging the role these occasions played in shaping his identity as an artist and an activist. It highlights how the confluence of music and social justice efforts guided him towards a path where he might utilize his art to challenge the status quo and supporter for a more equitable society. This quote encapsulates a moment of genesis for Bragg, where he found his voice and function in the middle of a dynamic and socially conscious musical landscape.