Book The English Beat

The English Beat, known at home simply as the Beat, are the Birmingham band whose mix of ska, pop, soul, reggae and punk made them a defining act of the 2 Tone era. Formed in 1978, the original lineup paired singer and guitarist Dave Wakeling with toaster Ranking Roger, plus Andy Cox, David Steele, Everett Morton and veteran Jamaican saxophonist Saxa, with keyboardist Dave "Blockhead" Wright joining in 1980. In three fast years they released the albums I Just Can't Stop It (1980), Wha'ppen? (1981) and Special Beat Service (1982). Their best-known songs include "Mirror in the Bathroom" (1980), "Hands Off...She's Mine" (1980), their cover of "Can't Get Used to Losing You" (1980), "Too Nice to Talk To" (1981), "Save It for Later" (1982) and "I Confess" (1982), which became college radio and new wave staples in North America. The band also ran its own Go Feet Records label. Later records include Bounce (2016), Here We Go Love (2018) and Public Confidential (2019). Live, the Beat deliver a joyful, danceable set of upbeat rhythms and sing-along choruses that still fill dance floors.