#58: The Specials

I won't dance in a club like this. All the girls are sluts and the beer tastes just like piss

Next up are probably the most influential ska band of all time, The Specials. They were the founders of the 2-tone movement combining both punk and ska, and also having black and white members during sensitive times in England

Wiki Says: The Specials (sometimes called The Special AKA) are an English 2 Tone ska revival band formed in 1977 in Coventry, England. Their music combined a "danceable ska and rocksteady beat with punk's energy and attitude", and had a "more focused and informed political and social stance" than other ska groups. The group was formed by songwriter/keyboardist Jerry Dammers, with Terry Hall (vocals), Lynval Golding (guitar, vocals) and a rhythm section. The band wore mod-style "1960s period rude boy outfits (pork pie hats, tonic and mohair suits, and loafers)." In 1979, the song "Too Much Too Young", the lead track on their The Special AKA Live! EP, reached number one in the UK. In 1981, the unemployment-themed single "Ghost Town" single also hit number one in the UK Singles Chart. Their music is featured in film and television soundtracks. After seven consecutive UK Top 10 singles between 1979 and 1981, the band broke up. In 2008, it was announced that the band would reform and embark on a 30th anniversary tour in 2009. As of 2010, they are touring America and Europe.

Discovery: The Specials (1979)

More Specials (1980)

In the Studio (1984)

Today's Specials (1986)

Guilty Until Prove Innocent (1998)

Skinhead Girl (2000)

Conquering Ruler (2001)

Notable Other Contributions: "Explosive" by The Planet Smashers

"Life Won't Wait" and "Hooligans" by Rancid

Favorite Songs: 10. Too Much Too Young

9. Concrete Jungle

8. Stupid Marriage

7. You're Wondering Now

6. (Dawning of A) New Era

5. Monkey Man (Toots & the Maytals cover)

4. Enjoy Yourself

3. Little Bitch

2. Nike Klub (Reminds me of Reefers, check quote above)

1. A Message to You, Rudy (David Livingstone cover)

Years Active: 1977-84, 1996-2001, 2008-Present

Never seen them live

The Specials are almost always cited as an influence by ska bands. They got the movement in England started in the 70's that would make Madness, The [English] Beat, Bad Manners, and even The Clash who they were. They had no problem addressing the issue of race in England and encouraged all people to enjoy their music.

Up Next: A band that has Mexicans!