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.
Soul Rebel
UB40 Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
I'm a capturer, soul adventurer
See the morning sun, on the hillside
Not living good, yeah
You better travel wide
You better travel wide
Said I'm a living man
I've got work to do
Then you must be blue
I said, you must be blue
I'm a rebel, soul rebel
I'm a capturer, soul adventurer
I'm a rebel, rebel in the morning time
soul rebel
I'm a capturer
Soul adventurer
See the morning sun, on the hillside
Not living good, yeah
You better travel wide
You better travel wide
Said I'm a living man
I've got work to do
If you're not happy, children
Then you must be blue
I said, you must be blue
I'm a rebel, rebel in the morning time
soul rebel
I'm a capturer
Soul adventurer
I'm a rebel, soul rebel
I'm a capturer, soul adventurer
The lyrics to UB40’s “Soul Rebel” are a powerful expression of rebellion, adventure, and self-discovery. The verses convey a sense of urgency and restlessness, with the singer characterizing himself as a “rebel” and “capturer” on a quest to explore the world and find purpose in his life. The opening lines declare the singer’s identity as a “soul rebel,” a person who challenges the norms of society and seeks to break free from convention. The repetition of this phrase throughout the song emphasizes the singer’s defiance and determination.
The lyrics also convey a sense of optimism and hope for the future. The line “see the morning sun, on the hillside” evokes a sense of new beginnings and possibility, suggesting that there is always a chance to start fresh and find happiness. The chorus reinforces this message, with the singer reminding the listener that they can’t be happy if they’re not actively seeking fulfillment in their lives.
Overall, the song’s lyrics are a testament to the power of self-discovery and rebellion, encouraging listeners to embrace their inner “soul rebel” and pursue their own path in life.
Line by Line Meaning
I'm a rebel, soul rebel
I am a nonconformist, standing against the norms and expectations of society, and I embrace my unique and independent spirit.
I'm a capturer, soul adventurer
I am a seeker of new experiences, passionate about exploring and capturing the essence of life's adventures.
See the morning sun, on the hillside
I take time to see and appreciate the beauty of nature, finding solace in the simple yet breathtaking moments of life.
Not living good, yeah
I may not be living a perfect or ideal life, but I am content with the struggles and challenges that define my journey.
You better travel wide
I encourage others to explore the world, broaden their horizons, and not limit themselves to their current surroundings.
Said I'm a living man
I am alive, and fully present in the moment, striving to make the most of my time on this earth.
I've got work to do
I have a purpose, goals, and dreams that I am actively pursuing, using my time and energy to achieve them.
If you're not happy, children
If you are not content, satisfied, or fulfilled in life - my fellow human beings, friends, and companions on this journey.
Then you must be blue
Then you must be experiencing negative emotions or feelings of sadness, loneliness, or dissatisfaction that need to be addressed and resolved.
I'm a rebel, rebel in the morning time
I am an advocate for personal freedom, expression, and authenticity - starting my day with a fierce, bold, and fearless attitude.
Soul rebel
I am a rebel with a cause - a spiritual, soulful, and passionate fighter for what I believe is right.
I'm a capturer
I am an imaginative and creative observer, capturing the essence of life's beauty, joy, and struggle in my art, words, and actions.
Soul adventurer
I am a fearless and adventurous seeker, exploring the uncharted territories of the human experience, and discovering new dimensions of existence.
I'm a rebel, soul rebel
I am a free spirit, a revolutionary thinker, and a rebel with a soul - unafraid to challenge the status quo, and make my voice heard.
I'm a capturer, soul adventurer
I am a passionate and purposeful explorer, captivated by the mysteries and wonders of the universe. My journey is one of adventure and discovery, seeking out the essence and meaning of existence.
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Downtown Music Publishing
Written by: ROSS ANDERSON, SIMON LAW, BOB MARLEY, MIKE WEST
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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