The Specials: “Rat Race (live)” from Guilty ‘Til Proved Innocent!

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The Specials: Guilty 'Til Proved Innocent!

About “Rat Race (live)”

“Rat Race (live)” is a hidden song by The Specials from their album Guilty ‘Til Proved Innocent!

“Rat Race” is one of the most iconic songs by the British ska and 2 Tone band The Specials. It was originally released as a single in 1980 and later included on their 1991 compilation The Singles Collection. The song is known for its sharp social commentary and catchy ska-infused sound.

“Rat Race” captures the disillusionment and frustration of the youth in a society marked by economic struggles and limited opportunities. The lyrics address themes of conformity, the daily grind, and the pursuit of material success. The chorus, “It’s a rat race,” emphasizes the feeling of being trapped in a never-ending cycle of work and consumerism.

Musically, “Rat Race” features The Specials’ trademark ska rhythms, with a lively horn section and a danceable beat that became a hallmark of the 2 Tone genre. The song’s blend of catchy melodies and insightful lyrics made it a rallying cry for a generation and continues to be a beloved track among fans of ska and socially conscious music.

About Guilty ‘Til Proved Innocent!

Guilty ‘Til Proved Innocent! is the fifth studio album by the iconic British ska band The Specials, released in 1998. This album marked a significant return for the band after a lengthy hiatus and was their first studio release since 1984’s In the Studio.

Guilty ‘Til Proved Innocent! continues The Specials’ fusion of ska, reggae, and punk influences. The album features a mix of new material and reworked versions of previously unreleased tracks from their earlier years, providing a sense of nostalgia for fans.

Tracks like “Bonediggin'” and “It’s You” capture the band’s signature sound, blending socially conscious lyrics with upbeat rhythms. The album also showcases the band’s evolution, incorporating more diverse musical elements.

While it didn’t attain the same level of commercial success as their earlier releases, Guilty ‘Til Proved Innocent! was welcomed by fans as a satisfying return from a legendary band. It stands as a testament to The Specials’ enduring influence on the ska and punk genres.

How to find “Rat Race (live)”

On CD: Go directly to track #16

Listen to “Rat Race (live)”

“Rat Race (live)” was submitted to HiddenSongs.com by Eduardo. Can you add something? Please let us know!

Click here to buy Guilty ‘Til Proved Innocent! on CD, MP3 album, or vinyl at Amazon (US)

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