Terry Chimes, Founding Member of The Clash, Opens Up About Leaving Music for Medicine

Published: June 17, 2025

Terry Chimes, the drummer and founding member of the iconic punk rock band The Clash, has revealed the reasons behind his departure from the music industry.

In a recent interview on Radio X, Chimes, 68, shared his journey from being a rockstar to becoming a chiropractor. He confessed that he was always interested in medical school, but it didn't seem like the right fit when he interviewed.

Chimes said that the music industry is full of "crazy people" and after 15 years of being on the road and traveling, he "kind of had enough."

Chimes' decision to pivot to medicine wasn't sudden. He had always been interested in health and disease, and even considered becoming a vet before realizing that it wasn't the right fit for him.

After leaving The Clash, Chimes drummed for bands like Generation X, Hanoi Rocks, and Black Sabbath. He eventually opened up a chiropractic clinic in Essex in 1994.

Chimes' story serves as a reminder that it's never too late to change your path and pursue a new passion. His journey from being a rockstar to becoming a chiropractor is truly inspiring.

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