The Specials

The Specials

new wave, ska

United Kingdom Est. 1977

"Their tracks pulse with sharp rhythms and tight brass arrangements that propel forward while offering moments of tension and release."

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Begin with The Specials…

Blue Plate Specials Live

Blue Plate Specials Live

1999
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Career Arc

The Specials's discography from 1979 to 2021

1979 2000 2021
The Specials (1979) Gangsters (1979) Too Much Too Young: The G... (1980) More Specials (1980) The Special AKA Live! (1980) Do Nothing (1980) Rat Race (1980) Ghost Town (1981) The Singles Collection (1991) Live At The Moonlight Clu... (1992) Live: Too Much Too Young (1992) Coventry Automatics (1994) Today's Specials (1996) Guilty 'til Proved Innoce... (1998) Blue Plate Specials Live (1999) Best of the Specials (1999) Ghost Town Live (1999) Skinhead Girl (2000) Stereo-Typical: A's, B's... (2000) Conquering Ruler (2001)
The Specials stand as a cultural touchstone, intertwining music and social commentary in a way that redefined the landscape of British music.
The Specials stand as a cultural touchstone, intertwining music and social commentary in a way that redefined the landscape of British music. Their impact resonates beyond mere sound; they captured the pulse of a generation grappling with issues of race, class, and identity during a time of significant upheaval. Their energetic blend of ska and new wave not only revived interest in reggae-influenced sounds but also mobilized audiences to engage with pressing societal concerns through the lens of danceable yet thought-provoking art. Employing a distinct approach that merges sharp lyrical wit with infectious grooves, The Specials crafted songs that feel urgent and relevant. Their innovative use of horns and rhythmic syncopation creates a vibrant backdrop for their messages, while their live performances often ignited communal catharsis. This combination of spirited sound and incisive commentary turned their concerts into transformative experiences, where listeners were not just passive observers but active participants in a dialogue about their world. Lyrically, The Specials frequently explore themes of disillusionment, unity, and resistance against social injustices. Their storytelling is marked by a conversational tone that balances irony with sincerity, allowing for moments of levity amid serious discourse. This ability to blend humor with pointed critique makes their music resonate on both an emotional and intellectual level.

Full discography

The Specials's albums in order, from earliest releases to latest.

28 releases • 23 albums • 1 EP • 1979–2021
Type:

EPs ()

The Special AKA Live! album by The Specials

The Special AKA Live!

1980

Singles ()

Ghost Town album by The Specials

Ghost Town

1981

Do Nothing album by The Specials

Do Nothing

1980

Rat Race album by The Specials

Rat Race

1980

Gangsters album by The Specials

Gangsters

1979

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Timeline

How their sound evolved over time

Frequently Asked Questions

What does The Specials sound like?

Their tracks pulse with sharp rhythms and tight brass arrangements that propel forward while offering moments of tension and release. Rooted in new wave and ska. Start with The Specials.

What is the best The Specials album to start with?

The best album to start with is "The Specials" (1979). It's the most representative of what makes The Specials worth hearing.

Who is The Specials for?

If you're into new wave and ska, The Specials is worth your time. Their tracks pulse with sharp rhythms and tight brass arrangements that propel forward while offering moments of tension and release.

How many albums does The Specials have?

The Specials has 28 releases in their discography, including 23 albums and 1 EP.

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