If anyone ever asks you why were the 1980s so great?  You wouldn’t be wrong if you answered:  “Because of the English Beat”

The ska-influenced Beat recorded some great albums.  Dave Wakeling and Ranking Roger on vocals backed by outstanding musicians.   I considered choosing one of their lesser known tunes (End of the Party) but ultimately settled on Save it For Later which was probably their biggest hit in the USA.

The English Beat ended up splitting into two bands that you probably have heard of:  Wakeling and Roger went on to form General Public (and release infectiously happy albums and the massive single:  Tenderness.)  Andy Cox and Dave Steele (guitar and bass respectively) went on to form the Fine Young Cannibals (She Drives Me Crazy); both fine bands.

But it was when all 4 of these guys were together that they recorded their best stuff.  Pick up their album Special Beat Service and you’ll get what I mean.  And yes the video here is great too – forcing bored psuedo-intellectuals to the dance floor.

Happy Music!  We need more of it!

-cj cheetham

P.S.

Check out General Public and Fine Young Cannibals too.  More happiness!

52 songs for 52 weeks will get your music collection up to par. If you want to have a better music collection – check in each week . Add a song a week and in one year’s time your music collection will be the envy of all your friends.