The Specials (sometimes called The Special AKA) are an English 2 Tone ska revival band formed in 1977 in Coventry, England. Their music combined a "danceable ska and rocksteady beat with punk's energy and attitude", and had a "more focused and informed political and social stance" than other ska groups. The group was formed by songwriter/keyboardist Jerry Dammers, with Terry Hall (vocals), Lynval Golding (guitar, vocals) and a rhythm section. The band wore mod-style "'60s-period rude-boy outfits (porkpie hats, tonic and mohair suits, and loafers)". In 1979, the song "Too Much Too Young" reached the number one spot in the UK. In 1981, the unemployment-themed single "Ghost Town" single also hit number one in the UK. Their music is featured in film and television soundtracks. After seven consecutive UK Top 10 singles between 1979 and 1981, the band broke up. The band reformed and embarked on a 30th anniversary tour in 2009.
