UB40 Albums in Order: Having sold over 100 million records worldwide, UB40 is one of the best reggae and pop band, achieved considerable international success having more than 50 singles in the UK Singles Chart. The band, consists of 20 studio albums, 17 compilation albums, seven live albums, two remix albums, 63 singles.
Formed in 1978, UB40 is the UK’s most successful reggae group and has earned more than 50 charting singles with distinctive covers and original songs. ∙ The Birmingham band—who took the name UB40 from the British “Unemployment Benefit 40” form—scored a No. 4 UK hit with their first single, “King,” in 1979. ∙ Signing Off, their UK Platinum-certified debut LP, climbed to No. 2 on the UK Albums chart in 1980. ∙ UB40 broke through in the US with their 1985 cover of Sonny & Cher’s “I Got You Babe,” a duet with Pretenders frontwoman Chrissie Hynde that reached No. 28 on Billboard’s Hot 100. ∙ Their version of Neil Diamond’s “Red Red Wine” topped the charts in several countries when it was released in 1983, and it hit No. 1 in the US five years later.
“Swing Low,” performed with United Colours of Sound, was the official theme for the 2003 Rugby World Cup. ∙ They scored their second US No. 1 in 1993 with their version of “(I Can’t Help) Falling in Love with You,” which also topped the charts in five other countries, including the UK and Canada. ∙ In 2018, the group celebrated their 40th anniversary with a concert at Royal Albert Hall in London. So, if you are a die heart fan of UB40 Albums then check out here we have list of UB40 albums in order of release so far.
All UB40 Albums Available on: Apple Music
All UB40 Studio Albums in Order of Release Date
1. Signing Off (1980)
“Signing Off,” UB40’s groundbreaking debut album, emerged in 1980, leaving an indelible mark on the reggae scene. This LP, encompassing tracks like the contemplative “Burden of Shame” and the socially conscious “Food for Thought,” showcases the band’s signature blend of political lyricism and infectious rhythms. The album’s 12″ EP adds depth with tracks like the sprawling “Madam Medusa” and evocative “Strange Fruit.” In subsequent re-releases and special editions, additional versions and live sessions provide a comprehensive view of the band’s early creative process. With its rich array of tracks, “Signing Off” laid the foundation for UB40’s enduring musical legacy, setting a high standard for their subsequent albums.
2. Present Arms (1981)
“Present Arms,” UB40’s sophomore release in 1981, solidifies their status in the reggae pantheon. This album exudes a captivating blend of political consciousness and infectious melodies. Tracks like the title piece “Present Arms” and “One in Ten” address social issues with poignant lyricism, while “Lamb’s Bread” and “Don’t Slow Down” showcase the band’s mastery of rhythm and harmony. The EP included with the original release adds an instrumental dimension, with “Don’t Walk on the Grass” and “Dr X” providing a dynamic contrast. Overall, “Present Arms” is a testament to UB40’s ability to craft socially relevant music that remains deeply enjoyable, making it a pivotal entry in their discography.
3. UB44 (1982)
“UB44,” UB40’s third original studio album released in 1982, showcases the band’s evolving musicality and continued commitment to socially conscious themes. The album features a diverse range of tracks, from the anthemic “So Here I Am” to the introspective “I Won’t Close My Eyes” remix. “Love Is All Is Alright” and “Folitician [Remix]” offer fresh perspectives on familiar tunes, while “The Piper Calls the Tune” introduces a new sonic dimension. The album’s lyrical depth is exemplified in tracks like “Forget the Cost” and “The Prisoner,” addressing societal issues with characteristic UB40 poignancy. “UB44” stands as a testament to the band’s ability to innovate while staying true to their reggae roots, making it a noteworthy addition to their catalog.
4. Labour of Love (1983)
“Labour of Love,” UB40’s fourth studio album, marks a pivotal shift as their first venture into cover versions. Released in 1983, the album showcases the band’s adeptness at reinventing classic reggae hits. From the upbeat rendition of Eric Donaldson’s “Cherry Oh Baby” to the soulful interpretation of Jimmy Cliff’s “Many Rivers to Cross,” each track exudes UB40’s signature blend of reggae rhythms and socially conscious lyrics. Notable standouts include the iconic “Red Red Wine” and the heartfelt “Please Don’t Make Me Cry.” The 2015 deluxe edition offers additional gems, including extended versions and live recordings. “Labour of Love” stands as a testament to UB40’s ability to pay homage to their musical roots while leaving an indelible mark on the reggae landscape.
5. Geffery Morgan (1984)
“Geffery Morgan,” UB40’s fifth studio album released in 1984, showcases the band’s mastery of reggae-infused pop. With tracks like “Riddle Me” and “If It Happens Again,” the album radiates infectious melodies and socially conscious lyricism. The smooth groove of “As Always You Were Wrong Again” and the dub-inspired “D.U.B.” display the band’s musical versatility. Meanwhile, poignant tracks like “Your Eyes Were Open” and “You’re Not an Army” delve into deeper themes. “Geffery Morgan” stands as a testament to UB40’s ability to craft a seamless fusion of reggae rhythms and catchy pop hooks, solidifying their position as influential figures in the music world.
6. Baggariddim (1985)
“Baggariddim,” the sixth album by UB40, released in 1985, is a unique and innovative project. Unlike their previous works, this album combines original tracks with collaborations featuring notable artists like Pato Banton, Dillinger, and Admiral Jerry. Each song features a distinctive overlay of vocals and rhythms, creating a fresh dimension to familiar tunes like “If It Happens Again” and “Cherry Oh Baby.” Noteworthy tracks include the socially conscious “Demonstrate” and the catchy “Hold Your Position Mk.3.” The album also includes UB40’s rendition of the classic “I Got You Babe,” featuring Chrissie Hynde. “Baggariddim” stands as a testament to UB40’s willingness to experiment with their sound, resulting in a dynamic and engaging addition to their discography.
7. Rat in the Kitchen (1986)
“Rat in the Kitchen,” UB40’s seventh studio album released in 1986, encapsulates their musical evolution. With tracks like “All I Want to Do” and “You Could Meet Somebody,” the album maintains their signature reggae-pop fusion while exploring new sonic territories. The contemplative “Tell It Like It Is” and the upbeat “The Elevator” showcase the band’s lyrical depth and musical versatility. The title track, “Rat in Mi Kitchen,” is a standout piece, marked by its infectious rhythm and vivid storytelling. The album also features the anthemic “Sing Our Own Song,” which became an iconic protest anthem. “Rat in the Kitchen” solidifies UB40’s place in the music world as innovators who continue to push boundaries while staying true to their reggae roots.
8. UB40 (1988)
“UB40,” the eighth album by the British reggae powerhouse, released in 1988, is a vibrant fusion of infectious rhythms and socially conscious lyricism. From the pulsating beats of “Dance With the Devil” to the introspective contemplation in “Where Did I Go Wrong,” the album showcases the band’s musical prowess. Their cover of Dusty Springfield’s “Breakfast in Bed” is a standout track, marked by its soulful rendition. “You’re Always Pulling Me Down” and “I Would Do For You” exhibit UB40’s ability to address personal and societal themes with equal poignancy. “UB40” remains a testament to the band’s enduring impact on the reggae landscape, offering a rich tapestry of sounds that continue to resonate with audiences worldwide.
9. Labour of Love II (1989)
“Labour of Love II,” UB40’s ninth album and second covers project released in 1989, pays homage to reggae classics with the band’s signature flair. From the smooth rendition of Al Green’s “Here I Am (Come and Take Me)” to the soulful “Tears from My Eyes,” the album exudes a captivating blend of reggae rhythms and heartfelt lyricism. UB40’s interpretation of timeless tracks like “The Way You Do the Things You Do” and “Kingston Town” demonstrates their ability to infuse new life into beloved originals. “Labour of Love II” is a testament to the band’s reverence for reggae history, showcasing their talent in reviving timeless classics while leaving their indelible mark on the genre.
10. Promises and Lies (1993)
“Promises and Lies,” UB40’s tenth album released in 1993, showcases the band’s continued evolution in the realm of reggae-infused pop. From the infectious rhythms of “C’est La Vie” to the introspective reflection in “Bring Me Your Cup,” the album embodies a matured musicality. UB40’s rendition of Elvis Presley’s “(I Can’t Help) Falling in Love with You” stands as a remarkable highlight, demonstrating their ability to infuse their unique style into iconic classics. Tracks like “Higher Ground” and “Desert Sand” further illustrate the band’s adeptness at crafting emotionally resonant music. “Promises and Lies” is a testament to UB40’s enduring ability to deliver engaging and socially conscious music, solidifying their position as stalwarts in the world of reggae.
11. Guns in the Ghetto (1997)
“Guns in the Ghetto,” released in 1997, is a reflective chapter in UB40’s musical journey. The album delves into themes of love, introspection, and social consciousness. Tracks like “Always There” and “Hurry Come Up” showcase the band’s signature blend of reggae rhythms and engaging melodies. “I Love It When You Smile” and “I’ve Been Missing You” reveal a softer, more emotional side to their music. The title track, “Guns in the Ghetto,” carries a poignant message about societal challenges. “Tell Me Is It True” and “Friendly Fire” further exemplify UB40’s lyrical depth and musical prowess. With “Guns in the Ghetto,” UB40 continues to demonstrate their ability to create music that resonates on both a personal and societal level, reaffirming their place in the reggae landscape.
12. Labour of Love III (1998)
“Labour of Love III,” UB40’s twelfth album and third covers project released in 1998, pays homage to reggae classics with the band’s distinctive touch. This album is a heartfelt tribute to iconic tracks, featuring renditions of songs by legendary artists like Neil Diamond, Bob Marley, and Ken Boothe. UB40’s interpretations, such as “Holly Holy” and “Soul Rebel,” showcase their reverence for the original compositions while infusing them with their own style. Tracks like “Never Let You Go” and “Blood and Fire” are marked by their soulful delivery and emotive lyricism. “Labour of Love III” stands as a testament to UB40’s enduring love for reggae music, as they continue to breathe new life into timeless classics.
13. Cover Up (2001)
“Cover Up,” UB40’s fourteenth studio album released in 2001, is a testament to the band’s enduring musicality. The album combines original compositions with heartfelt covers, showcasing UB40’s ability to weave their signature reggae sound into diverse musical landscapes. Tracks like “Rudie” and “The Day I Broke the Law” exude infectious rhythms and socially conscious lyricism. “Since I Met You Lady,” featuring Lady Saw, adds a dynamic and soulful dimension to the album. The emotionally charged “Walk on Me Land” and the reflective “Look at Me” showcase UB40’s lyrical depth and musical versatility. “Cover Up” stands as a testament to the band’s ability to create music that resonates with both longtime fans and new audiences alike, solidifying their legacy in the world of reggae.
14. Homegrown (2003)
“Homegrown,” UB40’s sixteenth studio album released in 2003, demonstrates the band’s enduring ability to blend reggae with contemporary elements. Tracks like “So Destructive” and “Drop on By” showcase infectious rhythms while delving into themes of love and introspection. The soulful “I Knew You” and the reflective “Someone Like Me” reveal a more emotional side to the band’s music. “Freestyler” brings a fresh and dynamic energy to the album. The dub version of “Nothing Without You” adds a unique twist to the tracklist. “Homegrown” is a testament to UB40’s continued relevance, as they infuse their signature sound with modern influences, creating music that resonates with both dedicated fans and new listeners alike.
15. Who You Fighting For? (2005)
“Who You Fighting For?” marks UB40’s fifteenth studio album, released in 2005, and it stands as a testament to the band’s enduring artistry. This album explores themes of love, introspection, and societal reflection. Tracks like “Who You Fighting For” and “Bling Bling” offer a blend of infectious rhythms and socially conscious lyricism. The poignant “War Poem” and “Sins of the Fathers” dive deep into weighty subjects with characteristic UB40 poignancy. “Good Situation” and “Gotta Tell Someone” further exemplify the band’s lyrical depth and musical prowess. With renditions of classics like “Kiss and Say Goodbye,” UB40 continues to demonstrate their ability to blend their unique style with timeless classics. “Who You Fighting For?” showcases UB40’s enduring impact on the world of reggae, offering a rich tapestry of sounds that resonate with audiences worldwide.
16. TwentyFourSeven (2008)
“TwentyFourSeven,” UB40’s sixteenth studio album released in 2008, is a vibrant testament to the band’s enduring musicality. The album encapsulates a wide range of themes, from the socially conscious “End of War” to the soulful “Lost and Found.” Collaborations with artists like Maxi Priest on “Dance Until The Morning Light” and a rendition of “I Shot the Sheriff” showcase UB40’s ability to blend their distinctive sound with contemporary influences. The extended version of “Oh America” with One Love and Rasta Don adds a dynamic layer to the tracklist. “TwentyFourSeven” not only reaffirms UB40’s status as reggae legends but also demonstrates their ability to evolve with the times while staying true to their roots.
17. Labour of Love IV (2010)
“Labour of Love IV,” UB40’s seventeenth album and fourth covers project released in 2010, is a vibrant homage to reggae classics. The album pays tribute to iconic tracks by artists like Ken Boothe, Sam Cooke, and Smokey Robinson. UB40 infuses their unique style into each rendition, breathing new life into these timeless songs. Tracks like “Don’t Want To See You Cry” and “Close To Me” showcase UB40’s ability to capture the emotional depth of the originals. The infectious rhythms of “Boom Shacka Lacka” and “Easy Snappin'” exude the band’s signature reggae flair. “Labour of Love IV” stands as a testament to UB40’s enduring love for reggae music, as they continue to revive and celebrate timeless classics with their distinct touch.
18. Getting Over the Storm (2013)
“Getting Over the Storm,” UB40’s eighteenth studio album released in 2013, showcases the band’s versatility by venturing into country-reggae fusion. The album features covers of country classics, skillfully infused with UB40’s signature reggae sound. Tracks like “Midnight Rider” and “Getting Over the Storm” exemplify this unique blend, with soulful melodies and heartfelt lyrics. The band’s rendition of songs like “He’ll Have to Go” and “Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain” pays homage to country legends, displaying UB40’s ability to breathe new life into these beloved classics. With this album, UB40 not only pays tribute to the roots of country music but also demonstrates their ability to transcend genres and create a sound uniquely their own.
19. For the Many (2019)
“For the Many,” UB40’s nineteenth studio album released in 2019, is a testament to their enduring musical prowess. The album features a rich array of tracks that delve into a diverse range of themes. From the introspective “Broken Man” featuring Kabaka Pyramid to the socially conscious “Gravy Train” featuring Slinger, UB40 showcases their ability to tackle both personal and societal issues. The dub version of the album adds a dynamic layer to the tracklist, demonstrating UB40’s skillful command of reggae’s instrumental dimension. “For the Many” is a cohesive and engaging work that reflects UB40’s continued commitment to producing music that resonates with fans old and new.
20. Bigga Baggariddim (2021)
“Bigga Baggariddim,” released in 2021, is a reimagined version of UB40’s 1985 album “Baggariddim”. This album showcases a fusion of reggae beats and collaborations with talented artists. Noteworthy tracks include “The Buzz Feeling,” featuring Gunslinger, and “Hip Hop Lyrical Robot,” featuring Pato Banton. The album maintains the spirit of UB40’s iconic sound while introducing fresh elements through inventive collaborations. “Bigga Baggariddim” serves as a testament to UB40’s enduring creativity and their ability to breathe new life into their classic material, making it a captivating addition to their extensive discography.
How many albums does UB40 have?
The discography of UB40, a British reggae band, consists of TWENTY studio albums, NINETY compilation albums, SIX live albums, FOUR remix albums, SIXTY-FOUR singles and a number of appearances with other artists.
List of UB40 Albums in Order of Release Date
The List of List of UB40 Albums in Order of Release Here!
Studio albums:
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
Live albums:
1. UB40 Live — 18 February 1983
2. UB40 CCCP: Live in Moscow — June 1987
3. The Dancehall Album — 27 April 1998
4. Live at Montreux 2002 — 11 May 2007
5. The Lost Tapes – Live at the Venue 1980 — September 2008
6. UB40 at 40 – Live in Birmingham — 19 February 2021
Remix albums:
1. Present Arms in Dub — October 1981
2. Dub Sessions — December 2007
3. Dub Sessions II: Labour of Dub — December 2009
4. Dub Sessions III — October 2010
Compilation albums:
1. The Singles Album — August 1982
2. 1980–1983 — June 1983
3. More UB40 Music — September 1983
4. The UB40 File — March 1985
5. The Best of UB40 – Volume One — 26 October 1987
6. Labour of Love Parts I + II — 25 November 1991
7. The Best of UB40 – Volume Two — 30 October 1995
8. The Very Best of UB40 — 23 October 2000
9. UB40 Presents the Fathers of Reggae — August 2002
10. Labour of Love, Volumes I, II and III – The Platinum Collection — 2 June 2003
11. The Best of UB40, Volumes 1 & 2 — 14 November 2005
12. Love Songs — 2 February 2009
13. Best of Labour of Love — 22 November 2009
14. All the Best — April 2012
15. Collected — 24 June 2013
16. Red Red Wine: The Collection — 30 June 2014
17. Red Red Wine – The Essential UB40 — 23 September 2016
18. Red Red Wine – The Collection: Volume II — 26 October 2018
19. Essential — 9 October 2020
EPs:
1. Little Baggariddim — July 1985
2. You Haven’t Called — 18 January 2019
Conclusion:
UB40, the iconic English reggae-pop ensemble, boasts a prolific discography spanning over four decades. Beginning with their debut “Signing Off” in 1980, they went on to release a diverse array of studio albums including classics like “Labour of Love” (1983) and “Promises and Lies” (1993). Their enduring career is marked by a fusion of reggae rhythms and socially conscious lyrics. Their latest offering, “Bigga Baggariddim” in 2021, cements their legacy as influential figures in the world of reggae music.
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