An evening with: The English Beat
The English Beat
The English Beat, the U.S. incarnation led by Dave Wakeling on lead vocals and guitar, headlines an evening at Pappy & Harriet's. The set draws from the band's catalog, including songs associated with The Beat and General Public, alongside material from Here We Go Love.
Known as The Beat in their native England, the group emerged in 1979 as a founding force in British 2 Tone ska. Their music has moved between ska, soul, reggae, pop and punk, with songs including “Mirror in the Bathroom,” “Ranking Full Stop,” “Save It for Later” and “I Confess.”
Pappy & Harriet’s began as the cantina on a 1940s Western film set, and that history still frames a night here: the venue sits among Pioneertown’s old movie-set facades, with the desert just beyond. It is a restaurant and live-music venue, with shows in indoor and outdoor spaces; the setting and touring acts make the trip feel tied to this particular outpost, rather than just a concert stop. Shows are ticketed, general admission and standing-room only, with ADA seating available at either stage. The restaurant is separate, serves food, and runs a first-come, first-served waitlist, so put your name down early if you want dinner; eating does not secure a show ticket. Check the event details for doors and weather, especially for an outdoor performance.