Formed in Birmingham in 1978, UB40 rose from working-class roots to become the world’s most successful reggae band, selling over 100 million records and spending over 11 years on the UK album charts. Known for their multicultural lineup and left-wing political stance, the band named themselves after the UK’s unemployment benefit form.

Their breakthrough came in 1980 with the Top 5 hit King / Food for Thought and debut album Signing Off. They gained popularity with socially conscious lyrics and a blend of reggae, dub, and pop influences. Notable hits include One in Ten, Red Red Wine, I Got You Babe (with Chrissie Hynde), and Can’t Help Falling in Love, which became an international hit.

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, they released a series of successful albums including the Labour of Love series, Promises and Lies, and Geffery Morgan, often blending political commentary with love songs and covers of Jamaican reggae classics.

UB40 established their own label, DEP International, maintained equal band member ownership, and played globally, including groundbreaking tours in Zimbabwe, the Soviet Union, and South Africa. The band became known for their live performances, extensive tours, and support for anti-apartheid and other humanitarian causes.

In later years, the band saw significant lineup changes. Lead singer Ali Campbell left in 2008 and was replaced by his brother Duncan Campbell, until his 2021 retirement due to health issues following a stroke. Following Duncan’s retirement, Matt Doyle was announced as UB40’s new lead singer. Formerly the frontman of Birmingham band KIOKO, Doyle had previously supported UB40 on multiple tours and had already contributed vocals to the track You Don’t Call Anymore on UB40’s 2021 collaborations album Bigga Baggariddim. His soulful voice and style made him a natural fit for the band.

In August 2021, founding saxophonist Brian Travers passed away after a long battle with cancer. His death marked the end of an era, as he had been a key creative force in the band’s sound and message.

Despite personal losses and industry changes, UB40 continues to tour and release new music, staying true to their message of unity, political awareness, and reggae heritage.