Summary

UB40’s “Labour of Love” is a classic reggae album, released in 1983. The album features some of the band’s greatest hits, including “Red Red Wine”. It was the band’s first album to reach the top of the UK Albums Chart and was certified double platinum in the UK and platinum in the US.

The album features a mix of covers and original songs, all written and produced by the band. The covers include “Cherry Oh Baby” by Eric Donaldson. The original song is the classic “Red Red Wine”, which was the band’s first number-one single in the UK.

Labour of Love was a major success for UB40, both commercially and critically. It was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album and was one of the band’s most successful albums, selling over two million copies worldwide. The album is still considered one of the greatest reggae albums of all time and is a must-have for any vinyl collector.

“Labour of Love” is the fourth studio album made by British reggae band UB 40 and was launched in the UK on 12 September 1983 at DEP International.

About the artist

UB40 are a British reggae and pop band formed in 1978 in Birmingham, England. They are best known for their hits like “Red Red Wine” and “Can’t Help Falling In Love”, and for their 1983 album Labour Of Love.

The band was founded by brothers Robin and Ali Campbell, who were joined by vocalist and keyboardist Mickey Virtue, bassist Earl Falconer, saxophonist Brian Travers, percussionist and vocalist Norman Hassan, and drummer Jimmy Brown.

The band’s sound was heavily influenced by Jamaican reggae, ska, and dub music, and they often featured covers of classic reggae songs in their live shows. They were also known to incorporate elements of other genres, such as dub, punk, and soul.

Before the release of Labour Of Love in 1983, UB40 had released three studio albums. Their debut album, Signing Off, was released in 1980 and featured the hit single “Food For Thought”. Their second album, Present Arms, was released in 1981 and featured the single “One In Ten”. Both of these albums established the band as a major force in the British reggae scene.

Labour Of Love was the band’s first album of cover songs, and it featured classic reggae tunes like “Red Red Wine”. The album was a major success, reaching number one on the UK Albums Chart and spending over a year in the Top 10. It was also a major success in the US, reaching number 14 on the Billboard 200 and being certified platinum.

UB40’s Labour Of Love is a classic reggae album that showcases the band’s unique blend of reggae, ska, and dub music. It is the perfect example of how the band was able to take classic reggae songs and give them a modern twist.

About the record

UB40 – Labour Of Love is a classic reggae album released in 1983 by the British band UB40. It is their fourth studio album and is considered their breakthrough album, reaching number one on the UK Albums Chart and staying there for a total of five weeks. The album features a mix of original songs, as well as covers of classic reggae songs.

The album has a more traditional, roots-based sound compared to the band’s previous two albums, Signing Off and Present Arms, which featured a more pop-oriented sound. On Labour Of Love, UB40 explore the classic reggae sound, incorporating elements of dub, ska and rocksteady into their songs. The album also features a more laid-back and relaxed sound than the band’s previous work, making it a perfect summer soundtrack.

The album’s themes are focused on love, relationships, and social issues, with songs such as “Red Red Wine” and “Please Don’t Make Me Cry” dealing with topics such as poverty and unemployment.

About the lyrics and music

When it comes to UB40’s Labour Of Love, the lyrics and music are what make this record so special. The album is a collection of classic reggae and ska covers, and the lyrics and music reflect this. The standout tracks on the album are “Red Red Wine,” and “Cherry Oh Baby.” These tracks showcase UB40’s signature reggae-pop sound, and the lyrics are full of clever wordplay and catchy hooks.

The lyrics on the album are mostly about love and relationships, which is a common theme in reggae music. The album also touches on political and social issues, such as the struggle for racial equality in “Cherry Oh Baby”. UB40’s Labour Of Love is a classic reggae album that stands the test of time. The lyrics and music are full of thoughtful messages about love, relationships, and social issues.

About the cover

The sleeve was designed by Kenneth Ansell and illustrated by David Dragon for Bitter and Twisted.

Conclusion

In conclusion, UB40 – “Labour Of Love” is an essential record in the discography of UB40, as well as a cornerstone of the reggae genre. With its catchy hooks, thoughtful lyrics, and iconic artwork, it is a must-have for any vinyl collector. Its influence can still be heard in the music of today, making it a timeless classic. It is a record that will continue to stand the test of time and remain a fan favourite for years to come.

Similar products

If you’re looking for more music from UB40, Labour Of Love is the perfect starting point. Released in 1983, this album contains some of the band’s most popular songs, including “Red Red Wine”. The album also features some lesser-known tracks, like “Please Don’t Make Me Cry” and “Cherry Oh Baby”.

For fans of UB40, we suggest their follow-up albums, Geffery Morgan (1984) and Baggariddim (1985). Geffery Morgan is a more experimental album, featuring a mix of reggae and funk, while Baggariddim is a more traditional reggae album.

If you’re looking for more music from similar artists, check out Steel Pulse’s True Democracy (1982) and Black Uhuru’s Red (1981). Both albums feature a mix of reggae, dub, and dancehall, and both bands have been influential in the genre.

Finally, if you’re looking for something a bit more upbeat, try Bob Marley & The Wailers’ Uprising (1980) or Toots & The Maytals’ Funky Kingston (1973). Both albums feature upbeat, danceable tracks, and are considered classics of the reggae genre.

In short, UB40’s Labour Of Love is a great starting point for exploring the band’s music, and there are plenty of other albums from UB40 and similar artists that are worth checking out. Whether you’re looking for something traditional or something more experimental, there’s something for everyone.