Madness is a band synonymous with the British ska and 2 Tone movement that emerged in the late 1970s and became firmly engrained in the musical tapestry of the UK. Formed in Camden Town, London, in 1976, Madness is best known for their spirited and catchy songs that often come with a humorous twist, embedded in the gritty narratives of urban life. The band's classic line-up includes Graham "Suggs" McPherson (vocals), Mike Barson (keyboards), Chris Foreman (guitar), Mark Bedford (bass), Lee Thompson (saxophone), Daniel Woodgate (drums), and Chas Smash (trumpet, dancing, and backing vocals), who were integral in shaping the unique sound that brought them widespread acclaim.

Throughout their illustrious career, Madness has successfully traversed the musical landscape, leaving their mark with a string of hit singles like "Our House," "It Must Be Love," and "Baggy Trousers," songs that have endured across generations. Their body of work is characterized by a blend of lively ska, rocksteady beats, and pop sensibility, underpinned by socially conscious lyrics that reflect British life and culture. The band enjoyed immense popularity in the 1980s and, after a brief hiatus, rekindled their presence in the music scene with rejuvenated vigor. With albums like "The Liberty of Norton Folgate," "Oui Oui Si Si Ja Ja Da Da," and "Can't Touch Us Now," Madness has continued to showcase their evolution as artists while remaining true to their roots, cementing their status as ska legends and an enduring cultural force within the British music industry.

Genres

Britpop

New Romantic

New Wave

Ska

Ska Revival

Related Artists

The Specials

The Selecter

UB40

The English Beat

The Beat

Reel Big Fish

The Mighty Mighty Bosstones

Bad Manners

The Clash

The Toasters

Dexys Midnight Runners

Ska-P

Latest Release

Theatre of the Absurd presents C'est La Vie (Enhanced Edition)

Madness

Album - 32 Tracks - Released June 28, 2024