Too Much Too Young: The 2 Tone Records Story: Rude Boys, Racism and the Soundtrack of a Generation

2 Tone was a multi-racial force of British and Caribbean island musicians who burst onto the national scene in 1979 with records by The Specials, The Selecter, Madness, The Beat, and The Bodysnatchers. It was a movement that spoke of social issues, racism, class, and gender struggles and took a stand against right-wing extremism. The music was exuberant, with white youth learning to dance to the infectious rhythm of ska and reggae and a punk attitude.

Format: Hardback
Length: 544 pages
Publication date: 19 October 2023
Publisher: Orion Publishing Co

In 1979, 2 Tone burst onto the national scene as records by The Specials, The Selecter, Madness, The Beat, and The Bodysnatchers flooded the charts, sparking the birth of a vibrant youth movement. 2 Tone was a multi-racial alliance of British and Caribbean island musicians who used their music to address social issues, racism, class, and gender struggles. It boldly spoke out against societal injustices and took a stand against right-wing extremism.

The music of 2 Tone was a vibrant fusion of ska and reggae, infused with a punk spirit to create an entirely original sound. The concept of 2 Tone originated in Coventry, conceived by a middle-class art student raised in the church. Jerry Dammers envisioned an English Motown and embarked on a mission to bring his vision to life. With a loan of £700, the label released its first record, featuring "Gangsters" by The Specials, backed by an instrumental track by the yet-to-be-formed Selecter. Within just two months, the single reached number six on the national charts, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey for 2 Tone.

Dammers quickly signed Madness, The Beat, and The Bodysnatchers, and their successive hits propelled 2 Tone to the top of the charts and into the hearts and minds of a generation. However, the pressures of running a label and internal conflicts among the bands soon took their toll, leading to 2 Tone's inevitable decline. Despite this, the label continued to thrive for a further four years, releasing a string of fresh signings and delivering a stunning finale in "(Free) Nelson Mandela."

Too Much Too Young is a captivating three-part documentary that delves into the history and legacy of 2 Tone. It explores the origins of the movement, its impact on British culture, and the enduring influence of its music on generations to come. Through interviews with key figures, including members of The Specials, The Selecter, Madness, and The Bodysnatchers, as well as music enthusiasts and historians, the film provides a comprehensive and insightful account of this influential and groundbreaking musical phenomenon.

In conclusion, 2 Tone was a transformative force in British music history, blending ska, reggae, and punk to create a unique sound that addressed social issues, challenged stereotypes, and inspired a generation. Its legacy continues to resonate today, and this documentary serves as a testament to the power of music to bring people together and make a positive impact on society.

Weight: 836g
Dimension: 164 x 243 x 46 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399607483