2 Tone is a music genre that emerged in the late 1970s in the United Kingdom, blending elements of ska, punk rock, and reggae. It is characterized by upbeat rhythms, brass instruments, and socially conscious lyrics. The genre was named after the record label 2 Tone Records, founded by Jerry Dammers of the band The Specials. The 2 Tone movement also had a significant cultural impact, promoting racial unity and diversity through its mixed-race bands and fans. Notable bands from this era include The Selecter and Madness, which helped popularize the genre and its distinctive style, marked by black and white checkerboard patterns.