Song Exploder

Key Change: Hanif Abdurraqib on The Clash

28 snips
Feb 26, 2025
Hanif Abdurraqib, a celebrated poet and cultural critic, dives into the world of The Clash and shares how his childhood library experiences sparked his love for music. He reflects on the thrill of discovering 'Lost in the Supermarket' and how limited access to music deepened his appreciation. Abdurraqib also reminisces about trading songs during middle school and the emotional duality of The Clash’s music, highlighting the calm amidst chaos. Finally, he discusses the power of music writing in shaping our understanding of artists.
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ANECDOTE

Library Discovery

  • Hanif Abdurraqib first heard "Lost in the Supermarket" at a library listening station.
  • He was drawn in by the curated selection and the isolated listening experience.
ANECDOTE

Library as Haven

  • The library was a newly built haven for Abdurraqib, offering a sense of freedom.
  • He cherished the autonomy it provided.
ANECDOTE

Supermarket Memories

  • "Lost in the Supermarket" resonated with Abdurraqib's childhood memories of grocery shopping with his mother.
  • The song evoked a sense of both freedom and being overwhelmed.
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