Madness is a British band known for its upbeat ska and pop sound. It rose to fame in the late 1970s and 1980s and became one of the most successful UK bands, with hits like Our House and Baggy Trousers.
Their album Absolutely (1980) and 7 (1981) were major successes, and they have had 15 Top 10 hits on the UK Singles Chart.
About the Song
Baggy Trousers is a fun and energetic song that conveys on school days with humor and sentiment. It has a catchy melody and playful lyrics, making it one of their most loved tracks.
The song contrasts childhood mischief with strict school life, creating a lively and relatable theme. Its upbeat ska rhythm makes it a fan favorite.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Released | September 26, 1980 |
| Album | The Business – The Definitive Singles Collection (1993) |
| Writers | Chris Foreman & Graham McPherson |
| Producers | Alan Winstanley & Clive Langer |
Baggy Trousers Lyrics by Madness
Verse 1
Naughty boys in nasty schools
Headmaster’s breaking all the rules
Having fun and playing fools
Smashing up the woodwork tools
All the teachers in the pub
Passing ’round the ready-rub
Trying not to think of when
The lunchtime bell will ring again
Chorus
Oh, what fun we had
But did it really turn out bad?
All I learnt at school
Was how to bend not break the rules
Oh, what fun we had
But at the time it seemed so bad
Trying different ways
To make a difference to
Verse 2
The headmaster’s had enough today
All the kids have gone away
Gone to fight with next door’s school
Every term that is the rule
Sits alone and bends his cane
Same old backsides again
All the small ones tell tall tales
Walking home and squashing snails
Chorus
Oh, what fun we had
But did it really turn out bad?
All I learnt at school
Was how to bend not break the rules
Oh, what fun we had
But at the time it seemed so bad
Trying different ways
To make a difference to the days
Verse 3
Lots of girls and lots of boys
Lots of smells and lots of noise
Playing football in the park
Kicking pushbikes after dark
Baggy trousers, dirty shirt
Pulling hair and eating dirt
Teacher comes to break it up
Back of the head with a plastic cup
Chorus
Oh, what fun we had
But did it really turn out bad?
All I learnt at school
Was how to bend not break the rules
Oh, what fun we had
But at the time it seemed so bad
Trying different ways
To make a difference to the days
Outro
Baggy trousers
Baggy trousers
Baggy trousers
Baggy trousers
Baggy trousers
Baggy trousers
Baggy trousers
Baggy trousers
Baggy trousers
Baggy trousers
Baggy trousers
Baggy trousers
Baggy trousers
Baggy trousers
Baggy trousers
Baggy trousers
Baggy trousers
Baggy trousers
Similar Songs Like Baggy Trousers
These tracks, in both theme and style, have a similar vibe to Baggy Trousers, making them perfect additions to a fun, nostalgic playlist.
-
“House of Fun“: This catchy and upbeat song about the awkwardness of growing up is filled with humor and lively energy.
-
“One Step Beyond“: A high-energy instrumental-driven track that defines Madness’s signature ska sound and party-like atmosphere.
Similar Bands Like Madness
The below bands have the same ska and 2-tone style as Madness, mixing lively beats with meaningful lyrics.
- The Specials
Genre: Ska, 2-Tone
Top Album: The Specials (1979) - Bad Manners
Genre: Ska, 2-Tone
Top Album: Loonee Tunes! (1980) - The Selecter
Genre: Ska, 2-Tone.
Top Album: Too Much Pressure (1980) - The Beat (The English Beat)
Genre: Ska, New Wave.
Top Album: I Just Can’t Stop It (1980) - Fun Boy Three
Genre: New Wave, Ska Pop
Top Album: Waiting (1983)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Meaning of the Song Baggy Trousers?
It conveys the mischief, chaos, and carefree nature of school life, inspired by lead singer Suggs’ childhood experiences.
When were Baggy Trousers a Hit?
The song was released in 1980 and became a major hit, reaching #3 on the UK Singles Chart.
What Key are Baggy Trousers?
The Song has sections analyzed in the keys of F Major and D Dorian.
