UB40 with Chrissie Hynde – I Got You Babe

Quick facts — song

• Title: “I Got You Babe”
• Artist: UB40 feat. Chrissie Hynde
• Release: July 15, 1985 (single; B-side: “Theme from Labour of Love”)
• Album: Baggariddim (1985)
• Label: DEP International
• Writer / Producer: Written by Sonny Bono; produced by Pablo Falconer
• Length: 3:09
• Genres: Reggae, lovers rock

Quick facts — video

• Director: Jonathan Demme
• Cast: UB40 and Chrissie Hynde
• Location: Live soundcheck → performance (venue, UK)
• Premiere: 1985 (video released alongside single)
• Runtime: Standard music video format
• Production: Classic reggae-pop video, no official production company noted
• Concept: Intimate, behind-the-scenes performance that transitions into a live show—warm, casual, and celebratory

Background & release

UB40 recorded this cover featuring Chrissie Hynde for their sixth album, Baggariddim, released in September 1985. The collaboration brought together a reggae-pop approach with Hynde’s distinctive vocals. The single was a key part of the CCR50 campaign’s contemporary outreach.

Composition & lyrics

The song preserves the original’s melodic simplicity but is transformed through a laid-back reggae beat and a duet structure. The contrast between Hynde’s voice and the reggae rhythm gives it a reflective yet optimistic tone, perfectly aligning with UB40’s smooth arrangement.

Music video: concept & production

Directed by Jonathan Demme, the video begins during a soundcheck—capturing performers in a relaxed mood—and transitions into a full performance with audience shots. This approach emphasizes authenticity and steamy reggae energy over theatrical storytelling, underscoring the song’s emotional connection.

Promotion & reception

Critics and fans welcomed it as a fresh, heartfelt take on a well-known duet. Its reggae-pop arrangement broadened the appeal across pop, reggae, and rock listeners. The video’s simplicity reinforced the emotional warmth of the song.

Chart performance & certifications

Certifications: Gold in the UK and New Zealand (via album Baggariddim) }

Personnel & credits

Song

• UB40 – reggae arrangement
• Chrissie Hynde – guest vocals
• Original writer: Sonny Bono
• Producer: Pablo Falconer

Video

• Director: Jonathan Demme
• Featured performers: UB40, Chrissie Hynde

Timeline

• July 15, 1985 – Single released
• Aug 1985 – Reaches #1 in UK, Ireland, Australia
• Sept 1985 – Peaks at #28 in US; Top 5 in Europe
• Sep 2, 1985 – Album Baggariddim released

References