The band is one of the most culturally diverse dub Ska bands with musicians of English, Scottish, Irish, Yemeni and Jamaican parentage. The band is named from the paper form issued by the UK government's Department of Health and Social Security at the time of the band's formation for claiming unemployment benefit (UB40 = Unemployment Benefit, Form 40).
UB40 were influenced by the many Blues Parties they attended as teenagers in the multiracial Balsall Heath area of Birmingham, their love of ska and reggae inspired such original tracks as King, Madam Medusa, Food for Thought, Signing Off and One in Ten.
Their early music style was unique, with a heavy influence of analogue synthesizers, psychedelic rock guitar, saxophone and dub producer techniques which were later perfected by the late Pablo Falconer.
Ali and Robin Campbell have a musical heritage, being sons of Ian Campbell, a folk musician.
The band purchased its first instruments with compensation money Ali Campbell received after a bar fight. They have had a number of hits, most commercially and to amusement of the band, "Red Red Wine", a cover version of a Neil Diamond song (in an arrangement similar to that of Tony Tribe's version). Their most successful single release is the cover of the Elvis Presley ballad Can't Help Falling In Love which was intended to be the main title to the 1992 Sharon Stone movie Sliver and was a Number One hit across Europe and in the U.S.
Many of UB40's recordings were inspired by 1960s ska and early lovers rock songs that would have otherwise been forgotten in the public eye. Their new injection of life into so many old Jamaican hits has resulted in many musicians' and producers' renewed popularity and income.
UB40's early music often tackled social issues such as racism and unemployment.
Other artists that UB40 have collaborated with include: Pato Banton, Madness, Bitty McLean, Chrissie Hynde, Robert Palmer, Hunterz, Japanese artist Mikidozan, French artist Nuttea, Lady Saw and Afrika Bambaataa.
It's All In The Game
UB40 Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
But it's all in the game
All in the wonderful game
That we know as love
You have words with him
And your future's looking dim
But these things
Once in a while he won't call
But it's all in the game
Soon he'll be there at your side
With a sweet bouquet
And he'll kiss your lips
And caress your waiting fingertips
And your heart
Will fly away
And he'll kiss your lips
And caress your waiting fingertips
And your heart
Will fly away
Once in a while he won't call
But it's all in the game
Soon he'll be there at your side
With a sweet bouquet
And he'll kiss your lips
And caress your waiting fingertips
And your heart
Will fly away
The song "It's All In The Game" by UB40 is a classic tune that talks about the varying emotions and experiences that come with falling in love. The lyrics of the song are quite insightful and relatable, as it talks about how love can bring tears and heartbreak, but in the end, it's all part of the game of love. The singer reassures his lover that even though they may have disagreements and their future seems uncertain, love can conquer all.
The chorus repeats the phrase "But it's all in the game", emphasizing the idea that love can be unpredictable, and there may be moments when someone may not call or when one's heart may feel broken. However, the singer reminds us that these are just temporary situations, and soon enough, the one you love will be back by your side, offering a sweet bouquet and caressing your waiting fingertips. It's a beautiful image of how the ups and downs of love can lead to moments of pure joy and bliss.
The lyrics of "It's All In The Game" are simple yet poignant, reminding us that love can be a rollercoaster ride, but it's still a wonderful game to play. It certainly captures the essence of the joys and pains of love, making it a timeless classic that still resonates with listeners today.
Line by Line Meaning
Many a tear has to fall
Love can be tumultuous and difficult, and it often results in heartbreak and tears.
But it's all in the game
However, these challenges are a natural and expected part of the game of love.
All in the wonderful game
Despite its challenges, love is a beautiful and worthwhile experience.
That we know as love
Love is a universally recognized emotion that has been experienced throughout human history.
You have words with him
Sometimes arguments or disagreements occur between lovers.
And your future's looking dim
These disputes can make it seem like the relationship may come to an end.
But these things
However, these are just temporary setbacks.
Your hearts can rise above
Lovers have the ability to overcome these obstacles and remain strong.
Once in a while he won't call
Sometimes one partner may not communicate as frequently or as consistently as the other would like.
Soon he'll be there at your side
However, this does not necessarily mean that the relationship is over or that the partner is not committed.
With a sweet bouquet
In fact, the partner may surprise his lover with a romantic gesture.
And he'll kiss your lips
The partner will express his love physically.
And caress your waiting fingertips
He will also show tenderness and intimacy in his touch.
And your heart
These actions will be so heartfelt and sincere that they will have a profound effect on the lover.
Will fly away
The lover will feel like she is soaring with joy and love.
And he'll kiss your lips
The partner's physical affection will continue.
And caress your waiting fingertips
He will continue to show tenderness and intimacy in his touch.
And your heart
Once again, the lover's heart will be deeply affected by the partner's actions.
Will fly away
She will once again feel a powerful sense of joy and love.
Once in a while he won't call
The cycle of communication and surprise romantic gestures may repeat itself, but this should not be cause for alarm.
But it's all in the game
These ups and downs are all part of the natural and wonderful game of love.
Soon he'll be there at your side
Ultimately, true love will prevail over any obstacles that may arise.
With a sweet bouquet
And the partners will continue to express their love and commitment to each other in sweet and romantic ways.
And he'll kiss your lips
They will share moments of physical intimacy that reaffirm their love.
And caress your waiting fingertips
And they will provide comfort and tenderness to each other through their physical touch.
And your heart
Through all of these moments, their love will continue to grow and strengthen.
Will fly away
And they will continue to experience the beautiful, unpredictable, and wonderful game of love.
Writer(s): CARL SIGMAN, GEN. CHARLES G. DAWES
Contributed by Arianna N. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
Paul M
on reckless
Does anyone know who the singer on the mic is with the hat? Also the two that come in with Bam? Thanks
Ian Fulton
on My Way of Thinking
Best band in the stratosphere
Rosie Contreras
on Red Red Wine
Awesome song