Greetings Superstars!
UB40 is interwoven with my high school memories on St. Croix. Summer vacations during college, too—that’s why the band will always be special to me. It reminds me of my O.G. best friends and our shenanigans. In honor of those fun times, here are five fun facts about UB40:
In 1993, UB40’s cover of Elvis Presley’s “(I Can't Help) Falling in Love With You” skyrocketed to Number 1 on the U.S. charts, thanks in part to its inclusion on the popular Sliver movie soundtrack. What a voice!
‘UB40’ stands for ‘Unemployment Benefit Form 40,’ a government form that was widely used in Birmingham, England—the band’s hometown. I wonder if they knew The Beat, whose music at that time was a response to young people’s frustration with bleak employment prospects in Birmingham?
Chrissie Hynde discovered UB40 when she saw them perform at a pub and let them tour with her band, The Pretenders.
UB40’s Platinum album, Labour of Love II, was released in 1989 and is one of the greatest albums ever. You’ll never tire of it. I know this is my opinion, but it’s also a fact. Here’s the song list:
“Here I Am (Come and Take Me)” “Tears from My Eyes” “Groovin’” “The Way You Do the Things You Do” “Wear You to the Ball” “Singer Man” “Kingston Town” “Baby” “Wedding Day” “Sweet Cherrie” “Stick By Me” “Just Another Girl” “Homely Girl” “Impossible Love”
You can find a commemorative plaque in the Hare & Hounds—acknowledging the Birmingham pub where UB40 played their first show.
What a great band! I hope that you find a moment this week to listen to your favorite UB40 song—or find a new one (I suggest “Homely Girl”).
I’ll be back with a new podcast episode in seven days…
5 Fun Facts About UB40