Punk Legend Colin Jerwood of Conflict Passes Away, Leaving a Lasting Punk Legacy

Colin Jerwood, iconic frontman of punk band Conflict, passed away at 63, leaving a powerful legacy in punk music and activism.

Remembering Colin Jerwood: A Punk Icon's Final Bow

Colin Jerwood, frontman of Conflict, captured in 2019.

The punk world is mourning the loss of Colin Jerwood, the fierce and influential frontman of the legendary punk band Conflict. At 63 years old, Colin passed away following a brief illness, a fact confirmed by his family on June 2, 2025, through a heartfelt statement shared on the band's social media.

The family’s message expressed their deep sorrow: “It is with a very heavy heart to announce Colin passed away after a short illness. We know for his supporters that this is difficult news to hear.” Conflict’s official statement echoed this grief, highlighting the profound sadness felt by bandmates and friends, and extending condolences to his family while requesting privacy during this difficult time.

Fans were asked to respect the family’s wishes not to attend the funeral in person, but were encouraged to share their memories and tributes on a memorial page, where their presence would be felt and cherished.

The Rise of Conflict: Punk with a Purpose

Conflict originated from Eltham, southeast London, in 1981, quickly becoming a voice of dissent amidst the political turmoil under Margaret Thatcher’s Conservative government. Their raw, unapologetic lyrics boldly challenged capitalist structures and societal norms.

In 1982, they released their debut EP, The House That Man Built, under the Crass Records label. Not long after, they established Mortarhate Records—an independent label that championed punk acts like Hagar the Womb, Icons of Filth, Lost Cherrees, The Apostles, and Stalag 17.

Their debut album It’s Time to See Who’s Who dropped in 1983, cementing Conflict's position in the punk scene as fierce, uncompromising, and fiercely political.

A Voice for Change: Activism and Influence

Jerwood was more than just a punk rocker; he was a passionate advocate for veganism, animal rights, and anti-capitalist activism. His beliefs resonated deeply with fans and fellow musicians alike, inspiring many to adopt a more conscious lifestyle.

Many anti fascists will be sad to hear that Conflict’s Colin Jerwood has died. His Eltham roots & the poisonous racism at times locally meant he backed a/fascists for many a year & when it really mattered.

Unite Against Fascism noted the impact of his roots and activism:

“Many anti fascists will be sad to hear that Conflict’s Colin Jerwood has died. His Eltham roots & the poisonous racism at times locally meant he backed a/fascists for many a year & when it really mattered.”

Cherry Red Records, who worked with Jerwood for over two decades through Mortarhate, shared their tribute:

“We’re sad to hear of the passing of Colin Jerwood, frontman of Conflict. We worked with Colin for over 20 years on the Mortarhate label. He was a character – sharp, driven, and always pushing forward. Colin left a mark on punk music that won’t be forgotten. We’ll miss him.”

Tributes Pour In: Honoring a Punk Trailblazer

The punk community and beyond flooded social media with heartfelt tributes, noting Jerwood’s influence on the anarcho-punk scene and his role in shaping the genre's ethos.

Conflict was easily my favorite band in the late 80s/ early 90s and Mortarhate by far my favorite label. To me, Conflict defined anarchopunk. Even more so than Crass... Conflict turned me into a record nerd buying copies of 12" singles even though I already had them.

— Dee Generate

RIP Colin Jerwood, lead singer of Conflict, honor him by becoming an ungovernable force yourself.

— Detritus Books

Rest in punk Colin 💔

— Punkrock History

These sentiments underscore the profound impact Jerwood had on punk music culture — not merely as a musician but as a symbol of resistance and authenticity.

Legacy and Final Works

Just last month, Conflict released their latest album, This Much Remains, showing that Jerwood's creative spirit remained strong until the very end. Before his passing, he was also working on a memoir titled Conflict, the movement, and me, aiming to chronicle the story behind the band and the punk movement they helped shape.

Colin Jerwood's legacy is one of fierce conviction, relentless activism, and a voice that challenged the status quo. His contribution to punk music and culture will continue to inspire generations of rebels and free thinkers.

FAQs About Colin Jerwood and Conflict

• What band was Colin Jerwood the frontman of?
  Colin Jerwood was the lead singer of the punk band Conflict.
• When did Conflict form and what was their message?
  Conflict formed in 1981 in London, focusing on anti-capitalism and social justice in their lyrics.
• What record label did Conflict establish?
  They founded Mortarhate Records, supporting various punk bands and independent music.
• Was Colin Jerwood involved in activism?
  Yes, he was an advocate for veganism, animal rights, and anti-capitalism.
• What was Colin Jerwood working on before his death?
  He was crafting a memoir titled Conflict, the movement, and me.

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