UB40

About

UB40, the Birmingham-born reggae collective, has spent over four decades crafting a sound that transcends borders, blending political consciousness with irresistible grooves. Emerging in the late 1970s amidst the UK’s economic turmoil, the band—named after the unemployment benefit form—became a voice for the working class, infusing their music with social commentary and a love for Jamaican rhythms. Their signature style, a fusion of reggae, dub, and pop, has made them one of the most successful British bands of all time, with over 100 million records sold worldwide. UB40’s breakthrough came with their 1983 cover of Neil Diamond’s “Red Red Wine,” which topped charts globally and introduced reggae to mainstream audiences. Their *Labour of Love* series, featuring reimagined reggae classics, further cemented their legacy. Beyond their chart-topping hits, UB40’s commitment to activism and multiculturalism has solidified their place as cultural pioneers. The band has weathered lineup changes and internal disputes, but their music remains a unifying force. Recent years have seen UB40 touring extensively and releasing new material, including their 2021 album *Bigga Baggariddim*, a collaboration with artists like Inner Circle and Tippa Irie. With a career defined by resilience and reinvention, UB40 continues to champion reggae’s global appeal while staying true to their roots.