Recommendation of Ska: from signature songs to popular tracks, must-hear classics

NowhereArrogant Sons of Bitches

Arrogant Sons of Bitches – Nowhere

Arrogant Sons of Bitches is a six-piece American ska band.

This energetic, fast-paced track, featuring a striking, heavy bassline, is included on their 2006 album Three Cheers for Disappointment.

The Impression That I GetThe Mighty Mighty Bosstones

The Mighty Mighty Bosstones – The Impression That I Get (Official Music Video)

When it comes to songs that shine brilliantly in the history of ska punk, this signature track by The Mighty Mighty Bosstones is the one.

Released in 1997, it pairs a lively melody with lyrics that delve into confronting life’s trials and anxieties.

It was inspired by frontman Dicky Barrett’s struggles with social anxiety and self-doubt.

The song topped the U.S.

Billboard charts and has been featured in numerous works, including the films Step Brothers and Chasing Amy.

With its brisk ska rhythm, it’s the perfect tune for anyone looking to face their own vulnerabilities.

OhichyoKEMURI

Ohichyo

They call their band style “Positive Mental Attitude,” or “P.M.A.,” and are a ska-punk band that keeps putting smiles on listeners’ faces with overwhelmingly positive energy.

They rose to prominence amid the ska-core boom of the 1990s and, despite their growing popularity, sadly disbanded in 2007.

They reunited in 2012 and have been active ever since, releasing new material.

Among their works, the early masterpiece “Ohichyo,” included on their classic 1998 album 77 Days and later featured on their best-of compilation, stands out.

From the opening guitar cutting and catchy melody to the Japanese lyrics that embody pure PMA, it’s a track that encapsulates the appeal of the band KEMURI.

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One LoveThe Wailing Wailers

Bob Marley & The Wailers – “One Love” [Official Audio]

Bob Marley’s signature song “One Love” has a timeless appeal, with its friendly melody and wonderful lyrics resonating with music fans all over the world.

Even people who aren’t into reggae have likely heard it at least once.

However, today’s theme is ska.

Did you know that this classic was first released by the group Marley belonged to at the very beginning of his career, the Wailing Wailers? The original 1965 version is faster in tempo and features a light, dance-inducing rhythm characteristic of ska.

Be sure to experience this different side of a masterpiece.

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LIP UP FATTYBadManners

BAD MANNERS – LIP UP FATTY

“LIP UP FATTY” by Bad Manners, a British ska band active since 1976.

Bad Manners stand alongside 2 Tone ska bands like The Specials, The Selecter, and Madness, and they have produced many hit songs.

Although they split up in 1987, frontman Buster has continued performing as Bad Manners on his own.

Pressure DropToots & The Maytals

Pressure Drop

This song, performed by the Jamaican-born legends Toots and the Maytals, has long been cherished as a classic of ska.

Recorded in 1969 and released the following year, it is indispensable when talking about the history of reggae.

Its musicality—blending soulful vocals with reggae rhythms—has influenced many artists.

Its inclusion on the soundtrack of the 1972 film The Harder They Come helped propel the band’s name onto the world stage.

It’s a highly recommended track not only for ska fans, but also for those interested in reggae and soul music.

All my best friends are metal headsLess than Jake

Less Than Jake – All my best friends are metal heads

“All My Best Friends Are Metalheads” is by the ska-core band Less Than Jake.

Centered around Chris DeMakes (vocals/guitar) and Vinnie Fiorello (drums), the band was formed in 1992 in Gainesville, Florida, USA, and made their major-label debut with their second album, “Losing Streak,” in 1996.

In 2009, they also performed at PUNKSPRING, a large-scale rock festival held in Japan.