UB40, a reggae band from Birmingham, UK, emerged in the late 70s from humble beginnings, with members scraping by on unemployment benefits. The band's original lineup consisted of friends from Moseley School of Art and local schools: Robin and Ali Campbell, Earl Falconer, Brian Travers, Jimmy Brown, Norman Hassan, and later, Michael Virtue and Astro. They named themselves after the unemployment benefit form "UB40" and quickly became known for their left-wing political stance, aligning themselves with causes like Rock Against Racism and anti-National Front protests.
In 1980, UB40's debut single "King b/w Food For Thought" reached the UK Top 5, setting the stage for their success. Their first album, Signing Off (1980), was a blend of reggae, dub, and politically charged lyrics, reaching No. 2 in the UK and staying in the charts for 72 weeks. By 1981, their second album, Present Arms, solidified their reputation, with the hit single "One In Ten" becoming an anthem for the unemployed and a protest against the UK government's policies.
UB40's third album, UB44 (1982), marked a transition, but it was Labour of Love (1983) that truly catapulted them to international fame. This album of reggae covers, including the iconic "Red Red Wine," became their first UK No. 1 album and produced their first US No. 1 single. This success established UB40 as reggae ambassadors, introducing reggae to new audiences worldwide.
Throughout the 1980s, UB40 continued to release successful albums, including Geffery Morgan (1984), Rat In The Kitchen (1986), and UB40 (1988). Their collaborations with Chrissie Hynde on "I Got You Babe" and "Breakfast In Bed" were also hits.
The late 80s and early 90s saw the band achieve global success with Labour Of Love II and Promises and Lies, the latter featuring "Can’t Help Falling In Love," which became another US No. 1 hit.
In the mid-90s, the band took a break, with members pursuing solo projects. However, they returned with Guns In The Ghetto and Labour Of Love III , continuing to tour extensively. Their influence and success were underscored by their contribution to the England rugby team's 2003 World Cup campaign with "Swing Low" and the Grammy-nominated Who You Fighting For (2005), which featured politically charged songs and love ballads.
In 2008, Ali Campbell left the band to pursue a solo career, replaced by his brother Duncan Campbell. The band continued to release albums and tour, with TwentyFourSeven receiving critical acclaim. Despite Astro's departure in 2013, UB40 continued to tour successfully, playing sold-out shows across the UK, Europe, and beyond.
UB40's enduring appeal lies in their ability to blend reggae with socially conscious lyrics, making them one of the most influential reggae bands in history. Their journey from Birmingham's working-class roots to global stardom is a testament to their talent, resilience, and commitment to their music and message.
To celebrate their 45th anniversary, the band has just released the album UB45.
Joining us this week to share the story of their rise to international fame is original member, drummer Jimmy Brown.
For more head to their website https://ub40.global/
