Madness

Madness is a British ska band that emerged in the late 1970s and became one of the most prominent acts of the ska revival movement. Here are some facts about Madness:

1. Formation and Early Years: Madness was formed in Camden Town, London, in 1976. The band originally consisted of seven members: Graham "Suggs" McPherson (vocals), Mike Barson (keyboards), Chris Foreman (guitar), Lee Thompson (saxophone), Chas Smash (bass guitar), Mark Bedford (bass guitar), and Dan Woodgate (drums). The band initially performed under the name "The North London Invaders" before changing to "Morris and the Minors" and finally settling on "Madness" in 1979.

2. Ska Revival and Commercial Success: Madness rose to prominence during the ska revival of the late 1970s and early 1980s. Influenced by the ska and reggae sounds of Jamaican music, as well as British punk and new wave, Madness developed a distinctive style characterized by catchy melodies, upbeat rhythms, and humorous lyrics. The band's debut single, "The Prince" (1979), and their breakthrough hit, "One Step Beyond" (1979), propelled them to commercial success, paving the way for a string of chart-topping singles and albums throughout the 1980s.

3. Hits and Iconic Albums: Madness achieved widespread acclaim with their infectious singles and iconic albums. Their debut album, "One Step Beyond" (1979), featured energetic ska anthems like the title track and "My Girl", setting the stage for their subsequent success. The band's sophomore album, "Absolutely" (1980), spawned hits such as "Baggy Trousers" and "Embarrassment", further solidifying their reputation as purveyors of infectious ska-pop. Other notable albums include "Madness" (1983), "Keep Moving" (1984), and "The Liberty of Norton Folgate" (2009), which showcased the band's musical evolution and enduring appeal.

4. Cultural Impact and Legacy: Madness left an indelible mark on British popular culture with their catchy tunes, quirky style, and irreverent humor. Their music became synonymous with the ska revival movement and the vibrant subculture of 1980s Britain. Madness' influence extended beyond music to film, television, and fashion, with their songs frequently featured in movies, commercials, and TV shows. The band's enduring legacy is reflected in their continued popularity and their status as one of the most beloved and influential bands in British music history.

5. Reunions and Continued Success: Despite lineup changes and occasional hiatuses, Madness has remained active over the years, delighting fans with their live performances and new music. The band has reunited for numerous tours and special events, including their "Madstock" concerts in London's Finsbury Park. In 2019, Madness celebrated their 40th anniversary with a series of concerts and the release of a career-spanning compilation album. Their ability to connect with audiences across generations speaks to the timeless appeal of their music and the enduring legacy of Madness.