 During 1979 , the band began to attract a live following in London , being regulars at the Dublin Castle in Camden Town . The band 's first commercial recording was the Lee Thompson composition " The Prince " . The song , like the band 's name , paid homage to their idol , Prince Buster . The song was released through 2 Tone Records , the label of The Specials founder Jerry Dammers . The song was a surprise hit , peaking in the UK music charts at number 16 . A performance of " The Prince " on popular UK music show Top of the Pops helped Madness gain public recognition . Madness then toured with fellow 2 Tone bands The Specials and The Selecter , before recording their debut album . 
