A Lasting Impact on Punk Music: Remembering Colin Jerwood

June 4, 20253 min read

Neighbor, would you like me to read the news to you?

Colin Jerwood, the legendary frontman of the influential punk band Conflict, has passed away at the age of 63.

The news was shared by Jerwood’s family on June 2, through a heartfelt statement on the band’s social media pages. “It is with heavy hearts that we announce Colin has passed away after a brief illness,” they wrote. “We know this is tough news for his fans to process.”

Conflict also released an official message expressing their sorrow: “We are at a loss for words to convey how heartbroken we are by the loss of our bandmate and dear friend, Colin. We extend our deepest condolences to James, Georgia, and all of Colin’s family and friends. We kindly ask for privacy during this difficult time as we grieve together.”

In a request to fans, Jerwood’s family asked that they refrain from attending the funeral but mentioned they would be reading messages on the memorial page and would feel the presence of those who wish to pay their respects.

Formed in 1981 in Eltham, southeast London, Conflict gained notoriety for their provocative lyrics that critiqued the capitalist society under Margaret Thatcher’s Conservative government. Their first EP, “The House That Man Built,” was released via Crass Records in 1982, and they later established their own label, Mortarhate Records, which produced work by numerous other punk bands. Their debut album, “It’s Time to See Who’s Who,” came out in 1983.

An advocate for veganism, animal rights, and anti-capitalism, Jerwood was celebrated in tributes from fans and fellow musicians alike. Unite Against Fascism remarked, “Many will mourn the passing of Conflict’s Colin Jerwood. His roots in Eltham and commitment to fighting local racism marked him as a staunch anti-fascist for many years.”

Cherry Red Records expressed sorrow, stating: “We are saddened to learn of Colin Jerwood’s passing. Having collaborated with him for over 20 years at Mortarhate, we found him to be a vibrant personality—sharp, ambitious, and always striving for progress. Colin’s mark on punk music will endure. He will be missed.”

Conflict’s most recent album, “This Much Remains,” was released in May. Before his death, Jerwood was working on a memoir to share the story of “Conflict, the movement, and myself.”