"Spirit of St. Louis" is the third studio album by American singer Ellen Foley, released in 1981. The album is notable for its strong connection to The Clash, as it was primarily written and produced by members of the band. Ellen Foley was romantically involved with The Clash's Mick Jones at the time, which influenced the album's collaboration.
The album features a blend of rock and roll, pop, and punk influences, a departure from Foley's earlier work that leaned more towards traditional rock. "Spirit of St. Louis" includes several tracks written by Joe Strummer and Mick Jones of The Clash. Members of The Clash also played on the album, adding to its distinctive sound.
The album title, "Spirit of St. Louis," pays homage to Charles Lindbergh's famous transatlantic flight, which connects to Foley’s personal background, as she was born in St. Louis, Missouri. Despite the high-profile collaborators, the album did not achieve significant commercial success but has since gained a level of cult appreciation, particularly among fans of The Clash.
Ellen Foley's powerful voice and the eclectic mix of styles on "Spirit of St. Louis" showcase her versatility as a performer and highlight her connections within the punk rock scene of the early 1980s.
