We have a collection of 3 arrangements for Madness - One Step Beyond
What 1979 ska-punk anthem became Madness' signature song? Learn!
"One Step Beyond" is a song by the British ska band Madness, released in 1979. It's one of their most iconic and recognizable tracks, and here are some interesting facts about it:
Inspiration from a TV Show: The song's title and main refrain, "One step beyond," were inspired by the catchphrase of the character Suggs (named after the band's lead singer) in the British TV show "The Prince of Madness." The show was a comedy series featuring actor Mike Reid as a bumbling detective.
Cover of a Jamaican Ska Classic: "One Step Beyond" is actually a cover of a Jamaican ska classic. The original version was recorded by Prince Buster, a Jamaican musician and producer, in 1964. Madness's rendition brought ska back into the mainstream in the late 1970s.
The Nutty Train Dance: The song is closely associated with the "Nutty Train" dance. In live performances, the band and the audience often engage in a fun and energetic dance where they pretend to be on a train. This dance has become a signature part of Madness's live shows.
Chart Success: "One Step Beyond" was a chart success for Madness. It reached No. 7 on the UK Singles Chart and helped establish the band as a major player in the ska and new wave music scenes of the late 1970s and early 1980s.
Cultural Impact: The song's catchy tune and memorable video, which featured the band members goofing around on a railway platform, helped solidify Madness's reputation as a fun and quirky band. The video's playful style was an early example of music videos influencing popular culture.
Album Title: The song "One Step Beyond" also served as the title track for Madness's debut studio album, which was released in 1979. The album featured a mix of ska, reggae, and pop-infused tracks, establishing the band's unique sound.
Sampled in Hip-Hop: The instrumental break of "One Step Beyond" has been sampled in several hip-hop tracks over the years. Notably, it was sampled in the Beastie Boys' song "B-Boys Makin' with the Freak Freak."
Legacy: "One Step Beyond" remains one of Madness's most enduring and beloved songs. It's a staple in their live performances and has been covered by various artists and used in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials.
Cultural References: The song has been referenced in popular culture, including in the title of the American TV series "One Step Beyond," which was a supernatural anthology series that ran from 1959 to 1961.
Ska Revival: Madness, along with bands like The Specials and The Beat, played a significant role in the ska revival of the late 1970s and early 1980s. "One Step Beyond" played a crucial part in introducing ska to a new generation of music listeners.
"One Step Beyond" remains an enduring and iconic ska anthem that continues to be enjoyed by fans of Madness and ska music enthusiasts around the world.