About the song
Red Red Wine, a song that needs no introduction for many, yet holds a fascinating story beneath its deceptively simple melody. Released in 1983 by the iconic British reggae band UB40, Red Red Wine became an international sensation, topping charts worldwide and solidifying UB40’s place in music history. But the song’s journey is far richer than its meteoric rise to fame.
Red Red Wine wasn’t originally a reggae tune. It stemmed from the prolific pen of American singer-songwriter Neil Diamond in 1967. Diamond’s version, while successful, leaned towards a more introspective folk style.
---> Scroll down for the VIDEO
Fast forward to the early 80s, and UB40, a band known for infusing reggae with other genres, stumbled upon a cover version by Jamaican artist Tony Tribe. Intrigued by the song’s melancholic lyrics about love and heartbreak, UB40 decided to reggae-fy it.
What emerged from their studio was a revelation. Robin Campbell’s smooth vocals perfectly captured the yearning in the lyrics, while the band’s signature instrumentation – the steady skank of the guitar, the warm bass lines, and the ever-present horns – transformed the song into a laid-back reggae masterpiece. The melody, once melancholic folk, became a swaying invitation to lose yourself in the rhythm.
The beauty of UB40’s Red Red Wine lies in its simplicity. The lyrics themselves are straightforward, a lament about the protagonist drowning his sorrows in red wine. Yet, UB40 manages to weave a tapestry of emotions. The music, despite its relaxed tempo, holds an undercurrent of quiet desperation. Campbell’s vocals are both soothing and expressive, conveying the pain of lost love without ever resorting to melodrama.
Red Red Wine’s impact is undeniable. It not only propelled UB40 to superstardom but also introduced reggae to a wider audience, proving its universal appeal. The song transcended genres and cultures, becoming a timeless anthem for anyone who has ever sought solace in a glass – or perhaps a whole bottle – of red wine.
So, the next time you hear those opening chords of Red Red Wine, take a moment to appreciate the song’s rich history and UB40’s masterful transformation. It’s a testament to the power of music to take a familiar story and turn it into something entirely new, something that resonates deeply with listeners across generations.