Biography of UB40 [part.2]
From here, the road to UB40 is open. End of August 1980, UB40 launch their first album entitled SIGNING OFF. Again this also has a meaning for them. When they launched this album, the UB40 officers were officially no longer eligible for UK government benefits which meant they had to sign off from the Unemployment Benefit program.
Their own distinctive sound was formed from a long enough jamming process that they could do in some pubs around Birmingham. Their musical style is influenced by blues, ska, reggae, and lovers rock. The music offered by UB40 itself is quite unique because as a reggae band they also incorporate the sounds of analogue synthesisers, psychedelic rock guitar, and saxophone in their music.
Initially UB40 only able to succeed in the land of England, the country of their birth but the launch of the album LABOUR OF LOVE in 1983 was able to bring UB40 fly to the American continent and achieve success in the capital of this world music. Not long ago, the name of UB40 increasingly soar and it can not be separated from the interference of the popularity of Elvis Presley and Sharon Stone. Yes, since UB40 brought back the song (I Can not Help) Elvis's Falling In Love With You and this song is used as the theme song of SLIVER movie starring Sharon Stone, UB40's name starts worldwide.
Some call this UB40 the most successful reggae band in terms of raising money. Until now their albums have sold no less than 70 million pieces while many of the singles in the albums also made it to the charts in various countries. A remarkable achievement of former unemployed benefit recipients.
Have you ever heard the original Neil Diamond version of his song Red Red Wine? So good but totally different from what UB40 cut. I love how on one of his live CDs he totally gives them a shout-out for making it a hit.
I saw these guys at Pier 84 in NYC sometime in the 80's. Always enjoy UB40, great sound and great memories.