"Too Much Too Young" is an EP by British ska band The Specials, released in January 1980. It was the band's second EP and reached number one in the UK singles chart.
The EP includes five tracks, the lead track being a lively version of the 1969 song "Too Much Too Young," originally by reggae artist Dandy Livingstone. This EP version is shorter than the one featured on The Specials' debut self-titled album. The lyrics caution against teenage parenthood and suggest that young people should enjoy their youth.
Also included are "Guns of Navarone," originally a theme tune from the movie of the same name, and three covers: "Longshot Kick de Bucket," "Liquidator" and "Skinhead Moonstomp." These covers were often performed by the band at live performances.
The EP was produced by the band along with legendary musician and producer, Elvis Costello. The Specials' mixture of punk rock attitude with Jamaican ska and reggae music styles were particularly influential during this period, becoming the signature sound of what would later be called 2 Tone. This genre was characterized by its racially mixed bands and conscious, often socially critical, lyrics.
The Too Much Too Young EP overall is a spirited demonstration of The Specials' particular brand of ska revival, and it remains one of their most popular releases.
