Neville Staple, lead singer of the influential English ska group The Specials, was arrested following a show Wednesday in Chicago at the Metro.|

Around 3:30 p.m., the singer reportedly became irate and hostile toward Preston Graves, a production crew member, while Graves was telling the band members where to put their equipment.

Staple reportedly began arguing with Graves, 29, picked up a bar stool and hit Graves in the back of the head and grabbed his throat, according to Chicago police spokeswoman Arlene Mays.

Graves went to Illinois Masonic Hospital where he was treated and released by doctors.

Staple was charged with a simple battery misdemeanor. A court date is set for April 29 in Chicago, where the singer faces a possible fine and/or jail time.

The Specials' original incarnation, which released three albums before disbanding in the mid-'80s, is credited with influencing many third wave ska bands like Operation Ivy, Mighty Mighty Bosstones and Toasters. (Ari Bendersky)