20 Greatest Songs That Said F*** You To Authority

7. Ghost Town - The Specials

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1WhhSBgd3KI One of the most instantly recognisable tunes of the last few decades, Ghost Town is one hell of a groove. The ska anthem addresses many themes, including urban decay, de-industrialisation, unemployment and inner-city violence. The lyrics pose the question, 'do you remember the good old days before the ghost town?', and it's highly likely that listeners of the time could relate to the deterioration of their society. The song is now remembered for being a massive hit at the same time that riots were occurring in cities all across the UK. Music critics of the time hailed the track as a major piece of popular social commentary. Unfortunately, Ghost Town was the last recorded single by the original seven members of The Specials. The song did, however, win various single of the year awards upon its release in 1981. In response to the linking of the song and UK riots, singer Terry Hall said, "When we recorded 'Ghost Town', we were talking about riots in Bristol and Brixton. The fact that it became popular when it did was just a weird coincidence."
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Recent English graduate and Newcastle United nut. Rom-Com enthusiast, Bob Dylan fan-boy and expert poacher of eggs.