The English Beat in London

The English Beat is the North American billing of The Beat, a British ska and new-wave band formed in Birmingham in 1978. The group is known for the albums I Just Can’t Stop It, Wha’ppen? and Special Beat Service, and for songs including “Mirror in the Bathroom,” “Save It for Later,” “Too Nice to Talk To” and “Can’t Get Used to Losing You.” During its original run, the band toured Britain and North America and performed at the US Festival in San Bernardino in 1982. The original group split in 1983; since the 2000s, Dave Wakeling has led a US-based touring lineup under The English Beat name at clubs, theatres and festivals across North America.

The Selecter are a British ska band formed in Coventry in 1979 as part of the original 2 Tone movement. Fronted by Pauline Black, they are known for the album Too Much Pressure and songs including “On My Radio,” “Three Minute Hero” and “Missing Words.” The Selecter joined The Specials and Madness on the 2 Tone Tour in 1979. After reuniting in 1991, they returned to clubs, theatres and festivals, and in 2017 undertook a co-headlining UK tour with The Beat. They return to their home city of Coventry and play London on their British dates.