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The English Beat

Rock

The English Beat Tickets

Events24 Results

United States

About

THE ENGLISH BEAT IN CONCERT:

More than three decades after storming the world as a key player in Britain's late-'70s 2 Tone ska revival, The English Beat continue to fire up audiences with their snaking basslines and upbeat-heavy rhythms. Equal parts ska and punk, the band's live shows combine snarling showmanship and polished playing, including wailing saxophone and toasting (monotone rhythmic chanting) by Antonee First Class. Helmed by original frontman Dave Wakeling, the latest incarnation of the band is set to deliver another round of epic performances on their 2014 tour dates.

BACKGROUND SNAPSHOT:

Founded in 1978 in Birmingham, England, The English Beat joined a roster of like-minded artists on Britain's seminal 2 Tone Records for their 1979 debut single "Tears of a Clown." A year later, their debut LP I Just Can't Stop It peaked at No. 3 on the UK Albums Chart, spawning one of the biggest hits of the new wave era with 2 Tone classic "Mirror in the Bathroom."  1981 follow-up Wha'ppen was a similar success, supported by extensive touring in the US with The Pretenders and the Talking Heads. After the band's breakup in 1983, vocalists Dave Wakeling and Ranking Roger found success as General Public, releasing a string of hits including '80s synthpop anthem "Tenderness." Today, the two each head a different branch of The Beat, with Ranking Roger heading up the UK version of the band while Wakeling fronts California-based The English Beat.

FANS WHO BOUGHT TICKETS SAY:

"Loved, loved, loved the show! Danced the whole time. They played all their great songs. They really have timeless music that could be enjoyed as much today as it was 30 years ago!"

"English Beat was so fantastic! The energy was high and positive! Everyone was dancing and happy. They totally rocked it out and sounded amazing."

"Dave Wakeling continues to carry the torch for this latest version of the English Beat. The current lineup does a great job. The band kept everyone moving throughout the night and I would definitely go see them again..."

Reviews

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 based on 285 reviews
  • Rating: 1 out of 5

    Mercury Ballroom failed us.

    by Bug A on 12/12/23Mercury Ballroom - Louisville

    The Mercury Ballroom was not only misleading about show times, but charged $17 for beer. It's not like it's an outdoor music festival with multiple headliners. The English Beat was advertised, on their website, to begin at 8:00. Getting there early, 7:00, we later found out the Beat started at 9:00. Once 9:25 rolled around, and the sound and light ops were still passing the time on phones, waiting themselves, we left. NO performer should make an audience wait that long. Some of us English Beat fans are a bit old and have jobs the mercy morning. Meanwhile, the venue will suck you dry through the bar tab if you want to loosen up a little. Not interested in returning to the Mercury. First and last time.

  • Rating: 5 out of 5

    The Beat

    by McKenzie on 12/12/23Mercury Ballroom - Louisville

    Prior to the show last weekend at the Mercury Ballroom, I saw English Beat 40 years ago in the university student center. Everyone is older but the music is timeless. So glad to have another opportunity to see this amazing live performance.

  • Rating: 5 out of 5

    Awesome

    by MarkN on 12/11/23High Noon Saloon - Madison

    Great show. The English Beat nowadays is really Dave Wakeling and a backing band playing a mix of English Beat and General Public tunes, but there's nothing wrong with that. The band is great, Mr. Wakeling still has it. At 67(ish) he acts like a kid showing off at a family gathering. Super fun show.

  • Rating: 5 out of 5

    So Fun!

    by DA on 12/11/23High Noon Saloon - Madison

    My first live show for The Beat, kind of ridiculous I waited this long. The Saloon was a fun small venue, close to stage and place was packed. Dave and gang put on a great show, had a nice playlist. Would definitely go see them again if I get the chance.

  • Rating: 5 out of 5

    Terrific venue!

    by Valerie on 4/19/23Aura - Portland

    Fantastic place! Great view everywhere! Excellent sound! Only suggestion, more flattering lighting in the bathroom 😉

  • Rating: 5 out of 5

    They've still got it!

    by ke on 4/18/23Aura - Portland

    What a great show, as if not a day had passed since the 80s! Ranking Roger will always be missed but Antonee First Class did a fabulous job and Dave Wakeling still sounds exactly the same if not better. You guys put on a fabulous show and I'm so glad I went. Come back soon!

  • Rating: 5 out of 5

    Awesome show

    by Ireene on 4/6/23Palladium Times Square - New York City

    The English Beat always put on a great show. They're the hardest working band in the business! This was our 4th show...looking forward to the next one.

  • Rating: 5 out of 5

    Amazing!

    by Trio on 4/4/23Palladium Times Square - New York City

    The sound quality was great too! Wonderful place to see them.

  • Rating: 5 out of 5

    The English Beat sounded amazing. They never disappoint.

    by Tom M on 4/3/23Palladium Times Square - New York City

    I have seen the English Beat so many times over the decades. They sound great and played all of the crowd favorites. It was clear that everyone in attemdance were fans and really enjoyed the show. And The Palladium Time Square was packed, but comfortable. People danced the night away! And it was a really good crowd! I wholeheartedly recommend seeing the Beat. In fact anytime they come to town I will 100% be there again! They are the perfect crossroads of punk, reggae, rock, jazz, and new wave....AKA Ska! Love them always!!!!!

  • Rating: 5 out of 5

    Beat!

    by Jbl3 on 4/3/23Palladium Times Square - New York City

    I love the English Beat. Dave, Antonee and the band were great. Venue was great.