The Specials - Greatest Hits
The Specials · 2006
39 min · 12 tracks · new wave · ska
A revitalized collection blending energetic ska rhythms with poignant lyrics reflecting social strife and youthful rebellion.
Why this album works
This compilation serves not only as a nostalgic revisit of The Specials' influential catalog but also reached number 20 on the UK Albums Chart, evidencing their lasting appeal. The album's release coincided with a resurgence of interest in ska music, helping to cement the band's status as pioneers within the genre.
- Career context
- Released in 2006, 'Greatest Hits' marked a significant moment for The Specials as it came out two decades after their initial breakup in 1981. This album featured re-recorded versions of their classic tracks, showcasing the band's enduring influence on the ska and new wave scenes while reintroducing their sound to a new generation.
- Stylistic neighbors
- David Bowie· Bryan Adams· Muse· The Pretenders· Queen· PJ Harvey· John Cale· Paul McCartney
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Man at C&A (re-recorded) 2:50
- 2 A Message to Rudy (re-recorded) 2:47
- 3 Rude Boy's Out of Jail (re-recorded) 2:13
- 4 Leave It Out (re-recorded) 3:30
- 5 You're Wondering Now (re-recorded) 2:24
- 6 Running Away (re-recorded) 2:47
- 7 Ghost Town (re-recorded) 5:16
- 8 It's You (re-recorded) 3:14
- 9 Gangsters (re-recorded) 3:16
- 10 Simmer Down (demo) (re-recorded) 4:07
- 11 Too Hot (re-recorded) 2:56
- 12 Rude Boy Gone Jail (demo) (re-recorded) 4:35
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
Sync your library
Everything you track here works immediately — no account needed. Create one when you want to sync across devices.