10 Ultimate Ska Anthems
1. The Selecter – “On My Radio”
Released in 1979 by 2 Tone Records, The Selecter’s undeniably catchy second single, “On My Radio”, written by guitarist Neol Davies, reached number eight on the UK Singles Chart. Having released their first single “The Selecter” as a double A-side to The Specials’ “Gansters” earlier that same year, the band had inadvertently secured their place in history as pioneers of the 2 Tone movement.
Despite “On My Radio” heavily and humorously criticising the lacklustre state of UK public radio, the song, owing to its repetitive lyrics, curious falsetto chorus, and highly danceable beat, ironically spent nine weeks on the music chart. Front woman Pauline Black’s unique, soulful voice, combined with her striking stage presence; decked out in masculine rude boy duds, ensured the band stood out amidst a mainly white, male dominated ska scene.
As the true embodiment of the 2 Tone ethos, The Selecter, with their multi-racial, female led band, stood defiant in their beliefs on racial and gender equality, producing and performing politically conscious music at a time when affiliation with racist, fascist groups was worryingly on the rise.
The success of “On My Radio”, with its ska beat, cool reggae guitar and punk energy, not only helped The Selecter secure their first album deal, but also provided them a larger platform from which to spread their message of social consciousness.