Musicians & Bands · Rock
Book The Specials
The Specials, also billed as the Special A.K.A., are a 2 Tone and ska revival band from England that formed in Coventry in 1977. Their first settled lineup paired singers Terry Hall and Neville Staple with keyboardist Jerry Dammers, guitarists Lynval Golding and Roddy Radiation, bassist Horace Panter, drummer John Bradbury and the horn players Dick Cuthell and Rico Rodriguez. The group blended punk energy into ska and rocksteady grooves meant for dancing, wrote lyrics full of political and social commentary, and stepped on stage in sharp 1960s rude boy suits, pork pie hats and loafers. Their debut album Specials arrived in 1979, followed by More Specials in 1980, and the live EP The Special A.K.A. Live! led with "Too Much Too Young." The band later released Encore in 2019 and Protest Songs 1924–2012 in 2020. With a catalog that helped define a movement, they bring a danceable, high-energy show rooted in 2 Tone.
- Genres: new wave and ska
- Active since 1977
- Formed in Coventry
- Labels: Virgin Records, 2 Tone Records
- Category: Musician
Estimated fee range
How much does The Specials cost?
The estimated booking fee for The Specials is $250K–$500K. The final figure depends on the date, location, event type and what's required, and travel, production and hospitality are usually extra.
*Estimate only. Not a quote. Actual fees depend on date, location, travel and event details.
Career timeline
Milestones
- Released the album Specials
- Released the album More Specials
- Released the album In the Studio
- Released the album King of Kings
- Released the album Today’s Specials
- Released the album Guilty ’Til Proved Innocent!
- Released the album King of Ska
- Released the album Skinhead Girl
- Released the album Conquering Ruler
- Released the album Ghost Town
Similar talent
If you like The Specials
FAQ
Booking The Specials: questions
What is the typical fee range for The Specials?
Our estimate puts The Specials in the $250K–$500K range (estimate).
Who is similar to The Specials but less expensive?
Comparable active acts in a lower estimated range include The English Beat, The Stranglers, The Fixx.
How do I send a booking inquiry for The Specials?
Use the availability form on this page with your date, city, event type and budget range. Altus Entertainment contacts The Specials' representatives and replies within one business day; there is no cost to ask.
What is The Specials' booking fee?
The estimated booking fee for The Specials is $250K–$500K (estimate).
How much does it cost to book The Specials?
Plan for an estimated $250K–$500K for the fee itself, plus travel, production and hospitality. Altus Entertainment will confirm the real number for your date.
Who is The Specials' booking agent?
c-e-l-e-b.com is operated by Altus Entertainment, a celebrity booking agency. Altus does not claim to represent The Specials; it contacts The Specials' representatives on your behalf to check availability and negotiate terms.
How do I book The Specials?
Send the inquiry form with your event date, location, budget range and event type. Altus Entertainment responds within one business day.
Booking desk
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