UB40's Red Red Wine: The Story Behind The Hit

Hey music lovers! Ever heard that super chill, reggae-infused tune, "Red Red Wine" by UB40? Of course, you have! It's practically a global anthem for good times. But have you ever stopped to wonder about the real story behind this classic track and its iconic official video? Let's dive in and uncover all the juicy details, shall we?

The Genesis of a Reggae Anthem

So, how did a British reggae band end up covering a Neil Diamond song and turning it into one of the biggest hits of the 80s? It's a fascinating journey, guys. UB40, formed in Birmingham, England, in the late 1970s, was known for their socially conscious lyrics and their unique blend of reggae, pop, and dub. Their name, UB40, by the way, is a reference to the UK's unemployment benefit form at the time – a nod to their working-class roots.

The song "Red Red Wine" was originally written and performed by Neil Diamond in 1967. Diamond's version is a slow, acoustic ballad – quite different from the upbeat reggae rendition we all know and love. UB40 stumbled upon the song almost by accident. According to band members, they were looking for a cover song to include on their 1983 album, Labour of Love. This album was dedicated to reggae and ska songs that the band members had grown up listening to. One of the band members, James Brown, had remembered a version of the song by Tony Tribe, a Jamaican artist, and suggested they give it a try. What's super interesting is that many of the band members didn't even realize it was originally a Neil Diamond song until after their version became a massive hit!

UB40's take on "Red Red Wine" transformed the song completely. They infused it with their signature reggae rhythm, added a memorable melodica solo (played by Michael Virtue), and slowed down the tempo to create a laid-back, feel-good vibe. The result was a song that was both instantly catchy and deeply relaxing. It was released as a single in 1983 and became a modest hit, reaching number one in several countries, but it wasn't until its re-release in 1988 that it truly exploded in popularity, topping the charts in the US and becoming a global phenomenon. The success of "Red Red Wine" cemented UB40's status as one of the world's leading reggae bands and introduced the genre to a whole new audience. The song's enduring appeal lies in its simple yet effective arrangement, its infectious rhythm, and its universal message of love and longing. It's a song that transcends generations and continues to bring people together, whether they're sipping on a glass of red wine or just enjoying the summer sun.

The Official Video: A Blast from the Past

The official video for "Red Red Wine" is just as iconic as the song itself. Released in 1983, it perfectly captures the band's laid-back attitude and their connection to their hometown of Birmingham. Let's break it down, scene by scene.

The video kicks off with the band members hanging out in a social club, totally relaxed and enjoying each other's company. They're playing pool, chatting, and generally just having a good time. This opening scene sets the tone for the entire video – it's all about friendship, camaraderie, and good vibes. Notice the casual clothing and the unpretentious setting. It's a far cry from the glitz and glamour of many music videos of the era. UB40 was all about authenticity, and this video reflects that perfectly.

As the song begins, the band members start performing, interspersed with shots of them interacting with each other and the other people in the club. The performance scenes are simple and straightforward, focusing on the band's energy and their musical talent. There are no elaborate special effects or complicated choreography – just the band playing their instruments and singing their hearts out. The video also features shots of the band members walking around Birmingham, showcasing the city's industrial landscape and its vibrant street life. These scenes add a sense of place and grounding to the video, reminding viewers of UB40's roots and their connection to their community. It's a subtle but effective way of reinforcing the band's message of unity and social consciousness.

One of the most memorable aspects of the video is its grainy, almost documentary-like quality. This aesthetic gives the video a sense of realism and immediacy, making it feel like you're right there with the band, hanging out in their social club. The video's simplicity is actually one of its greatest strengths. It doesn't rely on flashy visuals or gimmicks to capture the viewer's attention. Instead, it focuses on the band's personality, their music, and their connection to their community. It's a video that feels genuine and authentic, and that's why it has resonated with so many people over the years. Of course, the video has been remastered and re-released in high definition, but the original's charm remains intact. It's a testament to the power of simplicity and authenticity in music videos.

Why "Red Red Wine" Still Resonates Today

So, what is it about "Red Red Wine" that makes it such a timeless classic? Why does it continue to be played at parties, weddings, and barbecues all over the world? There are several factors at play, guys.

First and foremost, the song is incredibly catchy. The reggae rhythm is infectious, the melody is memorable, and the lyrics are simple and easy to sing along to. It's a song that gets stuck in your head in the best possible way. But beyond its catchiness, "Red Red Wine" also has a deeper emotional resonance. The lyrics, though simple, speak to universal themes of love, loss, and longing. The song's melancholic undertones give it a depth that transcends its upbeat tempo. It's a song that can make you feel both happy and sad at the same time, which is a rare and powerful combination. The song's laid-back vibe also contributes to its enduring appeal. In a world that's often stressful and chaotic, "Red Red Wine" offers a moment of relaxation and escape. It's a song that you can put on and instantly feel transported to a sun-drenched beach, sipping on a cool drink and letting your worries fade away. The song's universality is another key factor in its success. "Red Red Wine" is a song that appeals to people of all ages, backgrounds, and cultures. It's a song that transcends language barriers and brings people together through its shared message of love and positivity. UB40's unique sound also played a significant role in the song's enduring popularity. Their blend of reggae, pop, and dub created a sound that was both familiar and fresh, appealing to a wide range of listeners. They were able to take a song that was originally a slow, acoustic ballad and transform it into a global reggae anthem.

UB40's Legacy and Influence

UB40's impact on the music world extends far beyond "Red Red Wine." The band has released numerous successful albums and singles, and they have toured the world extensively, spreading their message of unity and social consciousness. They have also influenced countless other artists, helping to popularize reggae music and bring it to a wider audience. UB40's commitment to social justice has also been a defining characteristic of their career. Their songs often address issues such as poverty, inequality, and racism, and they have used their platform to raise awareness and advocate for change. They have also been actively involved in various charitable causes, supporting organizations that work to improve the lives of disadvantaged people.

In conclusion, "Red Red Wine" is more than just a catchy tune. It's a cultural phenomenon that has touched the lives of millions of people around the world. Its enduring appeal lies in its simple yet effective arrangement, its infectious rhythm, and its universal message of love and longing. And the official video, with its laid-back vibe and its authentic portrayal of UB40's hometown, perfectly captures the spirit of the song. So next time you hear "Red Red Wine," take a moment to appreciate the story behind the song and the band that brought it to life. Cheers, guys!