Labour of Love III cover

Labour of Love III

UB40

Album 1998

About this album

Sound: "A vibrant fusion of reggae, pop, and dub that exudes warmth and nostalgia throughout its melodic explorations."

Where they were

Released in January 1998, 'Labour of Love III' was UB40's ninth studio album and the third installment in their popular 'Labour of Love' series. At this point in their career, UB40 had already established themselves as a major force in reggae music since their debut in 1980, with multiple chart-topping hits across the globe.

Why it matters

'Labour of Love III' reached number 8 on the UK Albums Chart and was certified Gold by the BPI, showcasing UB40's sustained popularity during the late 90s. The album continues the band's legacy of covering classic reggae tracks, influencing both fans and new artists within the genre.

Essential tracks

  • "Soul Rebel" — This track is a reinterpretation of Bob Marley’s classic, capturing UB40’s signature laid-back style while paying homage to reggae's roots.
  • "Legalise It" — With its lengthy runtime and poignant message about cannabis legalization, this track stands out as a bold statement reflective of the band's advocacy.
  • "Crying Over You" — This song showcases UB40's ability to blend emotional depth with catchy melodies, representing their crossover appeal beyond reggae fans.
  • "Come Back Darling" — This cover exhibits the band’s knack for reinterpreting love songs with a reggae twist, encapsulating the heartfelt themes present throughout the album.

Release Date

January 1, 1998

Artist Origin

United Kingdom

Tracklist

  1. 1 Holly Holy 3:35
  2. 2 It's My Delight 3:57
  3. 3 Come Back Darling 3:29
  4. 4 Never Let You Go 3:18
  5. 5 Soul Rebel 3:55
  6. 6 My Best Girl 4:10
  7. 7 Good Ambition 2:22
  8. 8 The Train Is Coming 4:18
  9. 9 Blood and Fire 3:59
  10. 10 Mr. Fix It 3:23
  11. 11 Stay a Little Bit Longer 2:52
  12. 12 Someone Like You 4:52
  13. 13 The Time Has Come 4:55
  14. 14 Crying Over You 3:58
  15. 15 Legalise It 9:53