The English Beat Brings Ska and New Wave Energy to Dallas
The English Beat
June 30, 2025, The English Beat electrified a packed house at the Granada Theater in Dallas, Texas. The iconic venue, with its vintage charm and perfect acoustics, provided the ideal setting for an evening of high-energy ska, reggae, and new wave. Fans from all over Dallas-Fort Worth filled the venue, eager to see one of the most influential bands of the 1980s. The crowd’s anticipation was palpable, and they were not disappointed.
The English Beat
The evening kicked off with a dynamic DJ set from DJ Culturegang, warming up the audience with a mix of classic ska and reggae. This set effortlessly set the tone for what was to come, creating a buzz that continued throughout the night. As the lights dimmed, the anticipation soared, and Dave Wakeling and his bandmates took the stage to raucous applause.
The English Beat
The band launched into “Rough Rider,” instantly setting the pace for the night. From there, they flowed seamlessly into a setlist packed with fan favorites, including “Twist and Crawl,” “Hands Off… She’s Mine,” and the soulful “I’ll Take You There.” The English Beat’s setlist spanned their legendary discography, offering up beloved tracks like “Tears of a Clown,” “Save It for Later,” and “Mirror in the Bathroom.” Each song was greeted with fervent cheers and sing-alongs, as fans showed their unwavering love for the band’s infectious rhythms and socially conscious lyrics. The crowd’s energy remained high, dancing and singing along with every word.
The English Beat
Despite facing some technical difficulties with the audio monitors, Dave Wakeling’s infectious charisma and professionalism kept the momentum going. Wakeling, ever the entertainer, shared anecdotes and interacted with the crowd, making them feel like part of the experience. His ability to overcome the audio issues was a testament to his skill and dedication as a performer. The band’s tight musicianship and Wakeling’s magnetic stage presence ensured that the show never lost its intensity, keeping the audience engaged and enthusiastic from start to finish.
The English Beat
The crowd at the Granada was a testament to The English Beat’s lasting impact. Fans of all ages filled the venue, from those who had experienced the band’s heyday in the early 1980s to younger generations discovering the band’s timeless music. This shared experience, filled with dancing, laughter, and singing, created a sense of community and nostalgia. It was clear that the love for The English Beat was as strong as ever, transcending generations and uniting fans in their shared passion for the band’s music.
The English Beat
In the end, The English Beat’s performance at the Granada Theater was not just a concert—it was a celebration of music, community, and the lasting legacy of a band that has remained relevant and beloved for decades. Dave Wakeling and his bandmates delivered a show that was as electrifying as it was nostalgic, reminding the audience why The English Beat remains one of the most influential and beloved acts in the history of ska and new wave music. For those fortunate enough to be in the crowd, it was a night to remember, and a reminder that the beat truly goes on.
The English Beat