Fred Armisen's Unforgettable Journey: Living His Punk Dream With The Clash, Inspired by an Iconic 'SNL' Skit
Fred Armisen's thrilling journey from a 'Saturday Night Live' skit to jamming with his punk rock heroes, The Clash, as he reveals to Questlove A punk dream turned reality for the talented comedian and musician
Fred Armisen, 56, recently had the incredible opportunity of meeting and rocking out with punk legends Mick Jones and Paul Simonon of The Clash. This unexpected experience came about after Armisen pretended to be a punk in his memorable skit "History of Punk" on Saturday Night Live. Armisen shared this unbelievable story during his time with Questlove for the acclaimed digital series "Quest for Craft," presented in collaboration with Academy Award-winner and fine Scotch whisky brand, The Balvenie Single Malt.
"The Clash were promoting this boxed set," Armisen stated. "They had the idea to create a humorous video for Funny Or Die. Surprisingly, their management contacted me. I portray a character named Ian Rubbish, a London punk with a unique admiration for the late British Prime Minister, Margaret Thatcher. He was the only one who held such admiration."
Fred Armisen and Questlove collaborated on The Balvenie. "I had the opportunity to do it on SNL," said Armisen. "It led to me getting connected with The Clash, and we even did an interview in character while playing music together!"
Questlove, who is 52 years old, inquired about the songs played by Fred Armisen with The Clash. He assumed that Armisen would have performed well-known hits such as "London Calling," "Clampdown," "Know Your Rights," or "Should I Stay or Should I Go." However, it turned out that Armisen did not include any songs from The Clash's discography in his performance. Armisen revealed, "We actually played Ian Rubbish songs." Questlove amusingly exclaimed, "Oh, so they played your songs!" Armisen agreed that it was quite "crazy." Armisen shared his disbelief, stating, "As I’m telling you, I can’t believe my own story."
Fred Armisen, Taran Killam, Bill Hader and Bobby Moynihan Saturday Night Live/YouTube
“History of Punk” was featured on Season 28 of SNL. The sketch starred Armisen, Taran Killam, and Bill Hader, who portrayed the fictional band Ian Rubbish and the Bizarros. Several months later, Funny or Die released an interview between Jones, aged 68, and Simonon, aged 67, where they discussed Hits Back, a compilation of their greatest hits. As Armisen had predicted, Jones, Simonon, and Armisen-as-Rubbish each picked up a guitar and performed “Hey Policeman,” the original song written specifically for the SNL sketch.
The Funny Or Die skit and the "Quest For Craft" episode held sentimental value for Armisen because they were filmed at Electric Lady studios in New York City. Armisen recalled visiting the studio with his friend Kenny during high school, simply to stand in front and admire the fact that The Clash had recorded there.
The third season of "Quest For Craft" premiered on Monday, October 16. Each episode delves into a distinct theme, exploring the intersection of craft and creativity through engaging conversations. In this season, Questlove engages in a discussion with Grammy-winning artist Anderson .Paak, exploring the power of art in cultivating happiness.
Additionally, Questlove has a conversation with renowned cellist Yo-Yo Ma, exploring the ways in which art can forge meaningful connections among individuals. Lena Waithe shares her unique approach and perspective in her work, while Armisen, in a captivating episode dedicated solely to him, discusses the remarkable and unexpected outcomes that can arise from dedicating oneself to their craft.
Questlove The Balvenie
All episodes are currently available on The Balvenie’s YouTube channel.
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