London SS are a British rock group founded in March 1975 by drummer Geir Waade, bassist John Brown, guitarist Mick Jones, and guitarist Eunan Brady (formerly of the Hollywood Brats). They later became associated with the then new punk rock scene when the Sex Pistols broke in early 1976. In 2012 Brady put together a new lineup, featuring himself along with Jimi McDonald, Taj, Michael Kane, and Andi Emm.
History
The origin of the name "London SS" is disputable. Geir Waade claims to have been the first to propose it:
The group's name caused disquiet in some quarters, because "SS" was generally understood to refer to the Schutzstaffel, the infamous paramilitary force of Nazi Germany, at a time when Nazi chic was a trend in UK pop. This came to haunt Mick Jones (who is Jewish) when the Clash became Britain's premier left-wing political band. When questioned about the name, Tony James stated:
The London SS recruited Kelvin Cyril Blacklock to front their band. Blacklock's arrival led to Geir Waade and Mick Jones's departures. The band then changed its name to Violent Luck.