Interview with The English Beat's Dave Wakeling

The Beat arose in England in the late 70s and concocted a unique amalgam of punk, ska, and pop into an explosively popular style that, by the early 80s, swept the popular charts. With smart and sometimes caustic humor they catalyzed a generation of teenagers fed up with strident punk ire. 30 years later, Dave Wakeling lacks pretense, but knows that good music is timeless. In fact, in this interview he takes some pleasure in pointing out that several of his songs, now more than 30 years old, have significant relevance today. This 30 minute conversation is a great peak into the vast talent that Wakeland embodies. For fans, it will be a treat, and for those just discovering his music, it will serve as an excellent primer.