2 Tone Scene in Coventry

It all seems like only yesterday.

That was the other film I was referring to, the derelict city one which I've seen many times. The one filmed at Coventry Sports Centre was used when the record was launched, I believe, but that one was used on TOTP etc.

Very sad to hear about Brad. Here he is in action at the Horizon Studios on Warwick Road. RIP indeed.

My wife and I have recently visited the Coventry Music Museum in Ball Hill. I can thoroughly recommend it, particularly if you were young in the 2 Tone era (a bit too late for me) but also if you want to see a good cross section of Coventry music memorabilia from Frank Ifield up to some more modern stuff. Only £3 to get in (£2 for concessions) and there is a cafe downstairs and all of the varied Ball Hall shops to visit as well. The museum staff are very well informed and extremely friendly.

Just found this set of photos by John Coles from 2012

'All or Nothing' Scooter Club (named after the Small Faces Mod Group song) is the main one in Coventry. The light blue Scooter with the Walt Jabsco figure on the front panel was/is being raffled in the Two-Tone Village.

Went to see the musical about The Small Faces, All or Nothing, at the Belgrade Theatre a few weeks ago.The Scooter boys were out in force and it was a great night's entertainment.

Always sad to hear such news, 62 is no age these days. I wonder if any readers of early memories of 2-Tone bands, perhaps of seeing the original Specials line up which included John Bradbury, and how the music grabbed them or maybe seeing them drinking in the Albany or some other Cov watering holes. Would love to hear from you and thanks in advance. Best wishes to all. Ruth

Hi folks, hope you're keeping warm. Having launched my Dirty Stop Outs book on 1970s Coventry, I'm now doing one on the 1980s. 2 Tone was going strong at the start of the decade and lots happening around the music, politics, fashions etc. I'd love to hear from anyone with memories, stories, pictures to share for the new book. Do get in touch when you've got a minute! Thanks a lot in advance, Ruth

These Coventry music legends here ("RODDY BYERS" and "NEVILLE STAPLE" from "The Specials" and Neville's lovely Wife "SUGARY" !) make me so proud of the music that has (and still does !) come out of Coventry and for any fans of "SKA" / "2-TONE" Music, I'd highly recommend the new album that has just been released by them, as I got them to sign my copy of it in town (at "HMV") last Saturday and brilliant it is too!!!! ("Long may they continue to do what they do best and that is to write and perform such good music"!!!!!!!!).

Was very pleased to see this billboard in Town yesterday, showing three of this city's most talented musicians / performers and people that I sincerely have the utmost love and respect for!!! ("RODDY "Radiation" BYERS" and "NEVILLE STAPLE" from "THE SPECIALS" and Neville's lovely talented wife "SUGARY"!).

Hi All, really enjoyed reading this forum over the last few months. Now, however, I have a question of my own. Does anyone know where exactly this photo was taken? I think I am certain that it is on the Spon End estate but where? The monkey bars are not there anymore. I also would like to know if someone knows where the photo comes from/ where it was published. Any hints, tips, help greatly appreciated!

Hi marenqo, welcome to the forum. The pic could well be Spon End and the group might be "The Specials"

Thanks scrutiny! Yes, this is The Specials, and I am quite certain it is somewhere on the Spon End estate, but I would like to know where exactly. There is playground on the estate, but it no longer has the monkey bars. I think the photo was taken in 1979, and my hunch it appeared in Sounds magazine, but it would be great if someone more knowledgeable has more details.