by Darrin VindiolaThe second "British Invasion" that took place in the 80s brought attention to some great musical talent from across the pond. One of my favorite bands from this era was General Public. They were one of those bands that instantly made you a little bit edgier and cooler once you became a fan.
General Public actually started out as 'The English Beat'. The group disbanded, and band members Dave Wakeling and Ranking Roger formed General Public with a number of other skilled artists. Other band members included; drummer Andy "Stoker" Growcott and keyboardist Mickey Billingham from Dexys Midnight Runners, guitarist Mick Jones from the Clash, and bassist Horace Panter from The Specials. Remaining members of the English Beat Andy Cox and David Steele in turn formed the music group "Fine Young Cannibals", but that's another story altogether.
Bands like Madness, Bad Manners, and The English Beat got me hooked on Ska music in the 80s, and I'm still a fan to this day. I've listened to all manner of ska bands since, like The Mighty Mighty Bosstones, Less Than Jake, Fishbone, Cherry Poppin' Daddy's, Sublime, and No Doubt (yup.. No Doubt started out as a ska band).
Through thick and thin however, I've always had a special place in my heart for the English beat and General Public. They always receive an ample amount of play time on my iPod, especially during bike rides and walks. If you need your memory jogged as to some of the hits these guys put out, I've posted a few videos below for you to check out. Enjoy..
The epitome of great 80s music
"Tenderness"
My absolute favorite General Public song..
"Never you done that"
Going back A little farther with the English Beat..
"Too Nice to Talk To"
My favorite English Beat Jam
"I confess"
Now THIS is an 80s video!
"Save it for Later"
Going back A little farther with the English Beat..
"Too Nice to Talk To"
My favorite English Beat Jam
"I confess"
Now THIS is an 80s video!
"Save it for Later"