The List of UB40 Albums in Order of Release

All UB40 Albums Available on: Apple Music  

 

How many albums does UB40 have?

The discography of UB40, a British reggae band, consists of 20 studio albums, 19 compilation albums, six live albums, four remix albums, 64 singles.

 

All UB40 Albums in Order: Check Out The List of  UB40 Albums in Order of Release Here!

Here is the list of UB40 Album in Order of Release Date

1. Signing Off — 29 August 1980
2. Present Arms — 29 May 1981
3. UB44 — 27 September 1982
4. Labour of Love — 12 September 1983
5. Geffery Morgan — 16 October 1984
6. Baggariddim — 2 September 1985
7. Rat in the Kitchen — 28 July 1986
8. UB40 — 11 July 1988
9. Labour of Love II — 27 November 1989
10. Promises and Lies — 27 July 1993
11. Guns in the Ghetto — July 1997
12. Labour of Love III — 17 November 1998
13. Cover Up — 22 November 2001
14. Homegrown — 3 November 2003
15. Who You Fighting For? — 18 July 2005
16. TwentyFourSeven — 9 June 2008
17. Labour of Love IV — 8 February 2010
18. Getting Over the Storm — 2 September 2013
19. For the Many — 15 March 2019
20. Bigga Baggariddim — 25 June 2021

 

All UB40 Albums List in Order

---

1. Signing Off (1980)

Tracks

1. Tyler
2. King
3. 12 Bar
4. Burden of Shame
5. TAdella
6. I Think It’s Going to Rain Today
7. 25%
8. Food for Thought
9. Little by Little
10. Signing Off
11. Madam Medusa
12. Strange Fruit
13. Reefer Madness

UB40’s debut album, ‘Signing Off,’ emerged in August 1980 via Graduate Records, swiftly climbing to the UK albums chart’s number 2 spot. This early success solidified their presence as a significant reggae force in Britain well before their global acclaim. The album’s politically charged lyrics resonated in a divided socio-political landscape, tackling issues like unemployment and the rise of conservative policies and racial tensions. Embracing dub-infused rhythms, it mirrored the influence of West Indian music on British pop culture, akin to the 2 Tone movement. Celebrated as their finest work, the album’s 30th-anniversary reissue in 2010 included bonus tracks and compelling archival footage, a testament to its enduring impact.

---

2. Present Arms (1981)

Tracks

1. Present Arms
2. Sardonicus
3. Don’t Let It Pass You By
4. Wildcat
5. One in Ten
6. Don’t Slow Down
7. Silent Witness
8. Lamb’s Bread
9. Don’t Walk on the Grass
10. Dr X

UB40’s second album, ‘Present Arms,’ released in 1981, made a resounding impact, spending 38 weeks on the UK album charts and peaking at number 2. Featuring socially and politically charged lyrics, tracks like ‘One in Ten’ critiqued Thatcherism, while ‘Sardonicus’ addressed political irony. The album embraced UB40’s advocacy for cannabis legalization through ‘Lamb’s Bread’ and ‘Don’t Walk On The Grass.’ Musically akin to their debut, the album’s heavy, reverberating style resonated. ‘Present Arms’ track became a staple opener for their concerts. Critically acclaimed and commercially successful, it birthed a dub version, ‘Present Arms in Dub,’ soon after, solidifying UB40’s impactful musical repertoire.

---

3. UB44 (1982)

Tracks

1. So Here I Am
2. I Won’t Close My Eyes
3. Forget the Cost
4. Love Is All Is Alright
5. The Piper Calls the Tune
6. The Key
7. Don’t Do the Crime
8. Folitician [Remix]
9. The Prisoner

UB44, UB40’s third original studio album, debuted in 1982 under the DEP International label. Despite being marketed as their fourth album due to a remix release, ‘Present Arms in Dub,’ it secured the No. 4 spot on the UK album chart. Notably, the early packaging featured a distinctive hologram cover. The album’s title, ‘UB44,’ derived from the Department of Employment’s form letter for British unemployment benefit claimants who missed their ‘signing on’ appointment, reflecting the band’s socio-political awareness. This release not only showcased their musical prowess but also emphasized UB40’s penchant for addressing societal issues within their art.

---

4. Labour of Love (1983)

Tracks

1. Cherry Oh Baby
2. Keep on Moving
3. Please Don’t Make Me Cry
4. Sweet Sensation
5. Johnny Too Bad
6. Red Red Wine
7. Guilty
8. She Caught the Train
9. Version Girl
10. Many Rivers to Cross

UB40’s ‘Labour of Love,’ their pioneering fourth studio album, marked a shift as their debut cover version compilation. Released on September 12, 1983, it showcased the globally acclaimed anthem ‘Red Red Wine,’ alongside hits like ‘Please Don’t Make Me Cry,’ ‘Many Rivers to Cross,’ and ‘Cherry Oh Baby,’ all UK top 20 singles. Despite initially charting modestly in the US, reaching 39, its re-entry in 1988 soared to number 14 due to ‘Red Red Wine”s belated success. The album secured top spots in the UK, New Zealand, and the Netherlands. Building on its triumph, UB40 subsequently launched three more ‘Labour of Love’ cover version albums.

---

5. Geffery Morgan (1984)

Tracks

1. Riddle Me
2. As Always You Were Wrong Again
3. If It Happens Again
4. D.U.B.
5. The Pillow
6. Nkomo-A-Go-Go
7. Seasons
8. You’re Not an Army
9. I’m Not Fooled So Easily
10. Your Eyes Were Open

Geffery Morgan, UB40’s fifth album released in 1984, draws its title from a band roadie’s friend, symbolizing cross-cultural encounters. Marking a departure from their prior covers album, Labour of Love, this record showcased the band’s original compositions. Notably, the album featured the hit track ‘If It Happens Again,’ peaking at No. 9 on the UK Singles Chart. With a shift toward self-penned songs, Geffery Morgan exemplifies UB40’s creative evolution, steering away from covers to express their musical prowess and cultural narratives.

---

6. Baggariddim (1985)

 

Tracks

1. The King Step Mk.1
2. The Buzz Feeling
3. Lyric Officer Mk.2
4. Demonstrate
5. Two in a One Mk.1
6. Hold Your Position Mk.3
7. Hip Hop Lyrical Robot
8. Style Mk.4
9. Fight Fe Come in Mk.2
10. V’s Version
11. Don’t Break My Heart
12. I Got You Babe
13. Mi Spliff

Baggariddim, UB40’s sixth album, unveiled in 1985, distinguishes itself from the US EP, Little Baggariddim. It offers revamped renditions of prior tracks from Labour of Love and Geffery Morgan, spotlighting guest vocalists and ‘toasters.’ Renowned figures like Chrissie Hynde from The Pretenders and Douglas Gilbert, lead trombonist of the London Symphony Orchestra, contributed. Released in select countries with a bonus 12″ EP in a gatefold sleeve, it spawned hits like the chart-topping “I Got You Babe,” a duet with Hynde, and the UK top-three track “Don’t Break My Heart,” originally the ‘B-side’ of “I Got You Babe.” This album marked a fusion of talent and reimagined classics.

---

7. Rat in the Kitchen (1986)

Tracks

1. All I Want to Do
2. You Could Meet Somebody
3. Tell It Like It Is
4. The Elevator
5. Watchdogs
6. Rat in Mi Kitchen
7. Looking Down at My Reflection
8. Don’t Blame Me
9. Sing Our Own Song

UB40’s seventh album, ‘Rat in the Kitchen,’ debuted in July 1986, showcasing hits like ‘Sing Our Own Song’ (UK No. 5, 1986) and ‘Rat in Mi Kitchen’ (UK No. 12, 1987). This album soared to No. 8 in the UK album charts and remained there for 20 weeks. Praised by critics, it drew acclaim for its innovative sound. The fusion of reggae and pop not only garnered chart success but also reflected the band’s versatility. ‘Rat in the Kitchen’ stood as a testament to UB40’s ability to craft engaging music that resonated with audiences, solidifying their stature in the music landscape.

---

8. UB40 (1988)

Tracks

1. Dance With the Devil
2. Come Out to Play
3. Breakfast in Bed
4. Always Pulling Me Down
5. I Would Do For You
6. Cause It Isn’t True
7. Where Did I Go Wrong
8. Contaminated Minds
9. Matter of Time
10. Music So Nice
11. Dance with the Devil (Reprise)

“UB40,” the eighth album from the British reggae band, debuted in 1988 under the DEP International label. Highlighted by the chart-topping success of “Breakfast in Bed,” a collaboration featuring Chrissie Hynde, the album soared to No. 6 on the UK charts. Infused with the band’s signature blend of reggae and pop, this release solidified UB40’s prowess in crafting hits and furthered their musical legacy in the UK music scene.

---

9. Labour of Love II (1989)

Tracks

1. Here I Am (Come and Take Me)
2. Tears from My Eyes
3. Groovin
4. The Way You Do the Things You Do
5. Wear You to the Ball
6. Singer Man
7. Kingston Town
8. Baby
9. Wedding Day
10. Sweet Cherrie
11. Stick By Me
12. Just Another Girl
13. Homely Girl
14. Impossible Love

UB40’s ‘Labour of Love II’, their ninth album and second covers release in 1989, resonated with chart-topping success. Featuring renditions like ‘Here I Am (Come and Take Me)’ and ‘The Way You Do the Things You Do,’ both soaring into the Billboard Hot 100’s top ten at No. 7 and No. 6 respectively, the album showcased the band’s adeptness at reinterpreting classics. Additionally, ‘Kingston Town’ surged to No. 4 on the UK Singles Chart, solidifying the album’s commercial triumph. With these tracks, ‘Labour of Love II’ epitomized UB40’s ability to infuse their reggae-pop fusion into iconic hits, reaffirming their position as chart conquerors.

---

10. Promises and Lies (1993)

Tracks

1. C’est La Vie
2. Desert Sand
3. and Lies
4. Bring Me Your Cup
5. Higher Ground
6. Reggae Music
7. (I Can’t Help) Falling in Love with You
8. Now and Then
9. Things Ain’t Like They Used to Be
10. It’s a Long Long Way
11. Sorry

UB40’s ‘Promises and Lies’, their tenth album, debuted in 1993, showcasing their reggae mastery. Featuring the cover hit ‘Can’t Help Falling in Love’ from the movie ‘Sliver,’ originally by Elvis Presley, it soared to No. 1 in the UK and No. 6 in the US. This album stands as their best-selling masterpiece, surpassing 9 million copies sold worldwide. With its seamless fusion of reggae rhythms and infectious melodies, ‘Promises and Lies’ solidified UB40’s global appeal, marking a pivotal moment in the band’s illustrious career.

---

11. Guns in the Ghetto (1997)

Tracks

1. Always There
2. Hurry Come Up
3. I Love It When You Smile
4. I’ve Been Missing You
5. Oracabessa Moonshine
6. Guns in the Ghetto
7. Tell Me Is It True
8. Friendly Fire
9. I Really Can’t Say
10. Lisa

Guns in the Ghetto,” UB40’s 1997 studio album released via DEP International label, reflects the band’s socially conscious themes. This album delves into poignant narratives surrounding societal issues, employing reggae and pop fusion. Addressing themes of urban struggle and gun violence, it stands as a testament to the band’s commitment to lyrical depth and social commentary. Despite receiving mixed critical reception, the album showcases UB40’s dedication to exploring pertinent issues within their music while continuing to experiment with their signature sound.

---

12. Labour of Love III (1998)

Tracks

1. Holly Holy
2. It’s My Delight
3. Come Back Darling
4. Never Let You Go
5. Soul Rebel
6. My Best Girl
7. Good Ambition
8. The Train Is Coming
9. Blood and Fire
10. Mr. Fix It
11. Stay a Little Bit Longer
12. Someone Like You
13. The Time Has Come
14. Crying Over You
15. Legalize It

UB40’s ‘Labour of Love III,’ their twelfth album and third covers release, debuted in 1998 under the DEP International label. Continuing their tradition of reinterpreting classics, the album showcases the band’s signature fusion of reggae and pop. Featuring renditions of beloved hits, it pays homage to the group’s diverse musical influences. ‘Labour of Love III’ encapsulates UB40’s commitment to reinventing renowned tracks with their unique sound, affirming their position as pioneers in the realm of reggae-infused pop music.

---

13. Cover Up (2001)

Tracks

1. Rudie
2. Sparkle of My Eyes
3. Really
4. The Day I Broke the Law
5. Let Me Know
6. Cover Up
7. Walk on Me Land
8. Something More Than This
9. Everytime
10. I’m on the Up
11. Look at Me
12. Since I Met You Lady
13. Walked in the Rain
14. Write off the Debt

UB40’s fourteenth studio album, ‘Cover Up,’ emerged on October 22, 2001, marking a return after a musical hiatus. Produced alongside Gerry Parchment at DEP International Studios in Birmingham, the album stirred internal discord due to its reliance on programmed rhythms, later criticized by vocalist Ali Campbell. Despite its distinct reggae/pop essence, the album faced a lukewarm reception, peaking at 29 on the UK Albums Chart, reflecting the band’s waning prominence. The lead single, ‘Since I Met You Lady,’ featuring Lady Saw, received limited airplay, reaching 40 on the UK Singles Chart. ‘Cover Up,’ addressing AIDS prevention, followed, hitting 54. The band commemorated their 21st anniversary with a charity concert and embarked on The Cover Up Tour, alongside politicized performances in South Africa.

---

14. Homegrown (2003)

Tracks

1. So Destructive
2. I Knew You
3. Drop on By
4. Someone Like Me
5. Freestyler
6. Everything Is Better Now
7. Just Be Good
8. Young Guns
9. Hand That Rocks The Cradle
10. Nothing Without You
11. Nothing Without You (Dub)
12. Swing Low

UB40’s sixteenth studio album, ‘Homegrown,’ released on November 3, 2003, via Virgin Records and DEP International, succeeded their prior work ‘Cover Up’ (2001). Produced at DEP International Studios in Birmingham, the album, described by Robin Campbell as a classic UB40 record, showcased a blend of love songs and politically charged tracks. Despite utilizing programmed rhythms, sparking internal differences, and drawing criticism from Ali Campbell, the album debuted at number 49 on the UK Albums Chart, the band’s lowest charting album at the time. Notably, the single ‘Swing Low,’ recorded as England’s rugby anthem for the 2003 Rugby World Cup, surged to number 15 on the UK Singles Chart post-England’s victory. UB40 toured extensively in 2003 to support ‘Homegrown’ and released the live DVD ‘Homegrown in Holland’ in 2004.

---

15. Who You Fighting For? (2005)

Tracks

1. Who You Fighting For
2. After Tonight
3. Bling Bling
4. Plenty More
5. War Poem
6. Sins of the Fathers
7. Good Situation
8. Gotta Tell Someone
9. Reasons
10. One Woman Man
11. I’ll Be on My Way
12. Kiss and Say Goodbye
13. You Say You Love

UB40’s ‘Who You Fighting For?’—their fifteenth album—debuted on June 13, 2005, and garnered a Grammy nomination for Best Reggae Album in 2006. This release signifies a resurgence of the band’s earlier politically charged, roots-infused sound, reminiscent of their work from the early 1980s. Notably, it marked the band’s inaugural album under Rhino Records in the United States, representing a significant milestone in their international career trajectory.

---

16. TwentyFourSeven (2008)

Tracks

1. Rainbow Nation
2. End of War
3. Lost and Found
4. Here We Go Again
5. Oh America
6. Instant Radical Change of Perception
7. I’ll Be There
8. Once Around
9. This Is How It Is
10. The Road

TwentyFourSeven, UB40’s sixteenth studio album, marks the end of an era as the final release featuring vocalist/guitarist Ali Campbell and keyboardist Mickey Virtue, both departing from the band in 2008. Released in 2008, this album encapsulates the band’s signature reggae-pop fusion, serving as a swansong for the classic lineup. With its distinct sound and poignant significance, TwentyFourSeven stands as a testament to the collective artistry of the departing members, marking a pivotal transition in UB40’s storied musical journey.

---

17. Labour of Love IV (2010)

Tracks

1. Don’t Want To See You Cry
2. Get Along Without You Now
3. Bring It On Home to Me
4. Cream Puff
5. Easy Snappin
6. Holiday
7. Close To Me
8. Man Next Door
9. Tracks of My Tears
10. True, True, True
11. Boom Shacka Lacka
12. You’re Gonna Need Me
13. A Love I Can Feel
14. Baby Why

Labour of Love IV, UB40’s seventeenth album and fourth covers release, debuted in 2010 under Virgin Records. Marking a shift, it’s the initial album without the iconic lineup following departures of vocalist/guitarist Ali Campbell and keyboardist Mickey Virtue in 2008. This transition saw vocalist Duncan Campbell taking the forefront. Despite lineup changes, the album maintained UB40’s signature homage to reggae, featuring reinterpreted tracks in their distinctive style. Labour of Love IV signifies a pivotal juncture in UB40’s evolution, showcasing their ability to adapt while staying true to their reggae roots.

---

18. Getting Over the Storm (2013)

Tracks

1. Midnight Rider
2. I’m Pretty Sure That’s Just What’s Killing Me
3. Getting Over the Storm
4. Blue Bilet Doux
5. If You Ever Have Forever in Mind
6. Crying Time
7. How Will I Get Through This One
8. He’ll Have to Go
9. Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain
10. I Did What I Did
11. On the Other Hand
12. How Can a Poor Man Stand Such Times and Live?
13. I Didn’t Know That I

Released on September 2, 2013, ‘Getting Over the Storm’ stands as UB40’s eighteenth studio album. This release holds a poignant significance as it marks the departure of the band’s talented trumpet player and vocalist, Astro, who left the group later that year. The album encapsulates the band’s signature reggae style, delivering a blend of soulful melodies and rhythmic tunes. As the final collaboration with Astro, ‘Getting Over the Storm’ symbolizes a chapter’s closure in UB40’s musical journey, showcasing their continued prowess while bidding farewell to a valued member.

---

19. For the Many (2019)

Tracks

1. The Keeper
2. Broken Man
3. Gravy Train
4. I’m Alright Jack
5. Moonlight Lover
6. You Haven’t Called
7. What Happened to UB40?
8. Bulldozer
9. Poor Fool
10. All We Do Is Cry

UB40’s nineteenth studio album, ‘For the Many,’ debuted on March 15, 2019, under the Shoestring record label. The album cover, crafted by saxophonist Brian Travers, portrays tower blocks, inspired by the Grenfell Tower fire tragedy. The album title’s ties to the Labour Party’s slogan ‘For the many, not the few’ were acknowledged by Travers, affirming the band’s socialist and Labour support. Featuring vocalist Duncan Campbell for the first time on an original material album, drummer Jimmy Brown highlighted its essence as a return to the band’s reggae roots of the 1970s. A limited edition 2-CD version offered dub mixes alongside the standard tracks.

---

20. Bigga Baggariddim (2021)

Tracks

1. The King Step Mk.1
2. The Buzz Feeling
3. Lyric Officer Mk.2
4. Demonstrate
5. Two in a One Mk.1
6. Hold Your Position Mk.3
7. Hip Hop Lyrical Robot
8. Style Mk.4
9. Fight Fe Come in Mk.2
10. V’s Version
11. Don’t Break My Heart
12. I Got You Babe
13. Mi Spliff

UB40’s sixth album, Baggariddim, distinguishes itself as a reworking of prior hits from Labour of Love and Geffery Morgan, spotlighting guest vocalists and toasters. Released in 1985, it features collaborations with Chrissie Hynde from The Pretenders and Douglas Gilbert of the London Symphony Orchestra. The UK, Germany, the Netherlands, and Belgium editions included a gatefold sleeve with an extra 3-track 12″ EP. Notably, the album soared with hits like the chart-topping “I Got You Babe,” a duet with Hynde, and the UK number-three track “Don’t Break My Heart,” originally the ‘B-side’ of “I Got You Babe” with added vocals.

---

Thanks for Visit!