UB40’s Here I Am (Come and Take Me): A Reggae Love Anthem for the Ages

Exploring the Magic of UB40’s Timeless Classic

Diving into the world of UB40, a British reggae/pop band formed in 1978, one can’t help but be captivated by their unique fusion of reggae and pop music that has resonated with millions of fans across the globe. With over 50 singles on the UK charts and sales of over 70 million records worldwide, UB40 is undoubtedly one of the most successful British bands in history.

A lineup that has seen multiple changes over the years currently features the founding members Robin Campbell (guitar, vocals), Brian Travers (saxophone, keyboards), Earl Falconer (bass, vocals), Norman Hassan (percussion, vocals), and Jimmy Brown (drums). Past members, such as Ali Campbell (vocals, guitar) and Astro (saxophone, trumpet, vocals), have also left an indelible mark on the band’s sound.

The 1990 track “Here I Am (Come and Take Me)” exemplifies UB40’s ability to breathe new life into a cover, originally recorded by Al Green in 1973. Despite being a cover, the band’s interpretation managed to carve its own path, reaching the number seven spot on the UK Singles Chart and enjoying immense popularity across the globe. The song possesses a uniquely infectious groove, thanks to the band’s signature reggae undertones that give the song a laid-back yet danceable vibe, which has stood the test of time.

However, one can’t overlook that UB40’s affinity for covers has occasionally been received with mixed reactions. Some critics argue that their reliance on interpreting other artists’ work takes away from their own creativity and originality. On the other hand, fans appreciate the band’s distinct take on classic tracks, transforming the songs into something fresh and new.

Throughout their illustrious career, UB40 has garnered numerous accolades and awards, including multiple Grammy nominations in the “Best Reggae Album” category. In 1986, the band was nominated for a Brit Award for “Best British Group.” Their 1983 album “Labour of Love” has been certified 4x Platinum in the UK, showcasing their commercial success.

In conclusion, while some may criticize the band’s heavier focus on covers, it’s impossible to dismiss the impact that UB40 has had on the music industry with their unique blend of reggae and pop. “Here I Am (Come and Take Me)” serves as a testament to the band’s talent for reimagining and elevating existing tracks while also carving out a distinct identity for themselves.

Charting the Success of a Reggae Revival

“Here I Am (Come and Take Me)” was released as a single by UB40 on June 18, 1990. It is a cover of the original song by Al Green, which quickly gained popularity and secured its place in the hearts of reggae and pop fans alike. This track was featured on the band’s ninth studio album, “Labour of Love II,” following their previous successful album, “Labour of Love.”

Upon its release, “Here I Am (Come and Take Me)” saw initial chart success in the United Kingdom, debuting at number 47 on the UK Singles Chart. The song quickly gained momentum, and by July 1990, it had climbed the charts to peak at number 7. This marked the band’s 12th top-10 single in the UK, solidifying their status as reggae and pop heavyweights.

In addition to its UK success, “Here I Am (Come and Take Me)” also made waves internationally. The song reached number 46 on the US Billboard Hot 100 in August 1990. Furthermore, it experienced significant chart success in Australia, peaking at the number 16 position on the ARIA Singles Chart. In other countries such as New Zealand, the song managed to secure a respectable spot at number 13 on the RIANZ Top 40 Singles Chart.

In terms of chart trivia, “Here I Am (Come and Take Me)” was the second-highest-charting single from “Labour of Love II,” surpassed only by the album’s lead single, “Kingston Town,” which peaked at number 4 on the UK Singles Chart. The song’s popularity and chart success contributed to the album’s overall performance, as “Labour of Love II” went on to become a multi-platinum-selling album in both the UK and Australia.

In retrospect, “Here I Am (Come and Take Me)” stands as a testament to UB40’s enduring appeal and ability to skillfully adapt and breathe new life into classic reggae tunes. The song’s chart success serves as a reminder of the band’s significant impact on the reggae and pop music landscape during the late 1980s and early 1990s.

Breaking Down the Lyrics

“Here I Am (Come and Take Me)” by UB40 features some deeply expressive lyrics. This section of the song shows the protagonist’s longing for freedom and a sense of being trapped. The lyrics paint a picture of someone who is looking through bars, unable to break free from their current situation. Though the song was written in the late 20th century, the feelings of being trapped and yearning for freedom are timeless and relatable, transcending the specific events and spirit of the time.

In the era when this song was written, people were dealing with various personal and societal struggles, such as the end of the Cold War and the looming threat of nuclear warfare. The lyrics in “Here I Am (Come and Take Me)” can be interpreted as a representation of the yearning for liberation from the constraints of the time. Additionally, the line “keep on hoping one day I’ll be free” could resonate with people facing their own personal battles, giving them hope for a brighter future.

While the lyrics of “Here I Am (Come and Take Me)” may not directly address the specific events of the time, they speak to a universal human desire for freedom and can be appreciated by listeners from any era.

A Visual Feast: The “Here I Am (Come and Take Me)” Music Video

Directed by the talented British director, Bernard Rose, the music video for “Here I Am (Come and Take Me)” showcases UB40’s unique blend of reggae and pop. This 1990 cover of Al Green’s original 1973 soul classic quickly became a hit, making its way to the top 10 charts in various countries, and the music video played a significant role in its success.

Bernard Rose, known for directing numerous music videos in the 1980s and 90s, including the iconic “Never Gonna Give You Up” by Rick Astley, brought his signature style to “Here I Am (Come and Take Me)”. The video was filmed on location in Australia, providing a stunning, sun-drenched backdrop for the band’s performance. It’s no wonder that the video production had a considerable budget, ensuring that the visuals matched the highest quality of UB40’s rendition of the song.

Artistically, the music video’s visuals are stunning and engaging. The opening scene sets the tone with a panoramic view of the beautiful Australian landscape, and the camera work throughout the video is noteworthy, capturing the energy of the band’s performance. The video’s use of slow-motion and quick cuts gives it a distinctive feel, seamlessly blending the natural scenery with the upbeat tempo of the song.

One notable aspect of the video is the inclusion of Aboriginal dancers, who perform traditional dances throughout the video, adding an authentic touch to the Australian setting. This creative choice resonates with UB40’s long-standing commitment to cultural diversity and inclusion, making the music video more than just an entertaining visual experience.

In the absence of an official music video, fans have taken it upon themselves to create their YouTube tributes as well. These fan-made videos often incorporate live performances, interviews, and behind-the-scenes footage to showcase the band’s enduring appeal and the lasting impact of “Here I Am (Come and Take Me)” on the music world.

All in all, the “Here I Am (Come and Take Me)” music video, directed by the skilled Bernard Rose, remains a testament to UB40’s artistic vision and their ability to create a visually captivating experience that complements their distinctive sound.

The Mastermind Composer Behind “Here I Am (Come and Take Me)”

Diving into the creative genius responsible for the hit song “Here I Am (Come and Take Me)”, we find that the composer is none other than the gifted musician Al Green. Al Green, who originally wrote and recorded the song in 1973, is an acclaimed singer, songwriter, and record producer. Boasting a career that spans over five decades, Green has a plethora of hits under his belt, including the timeless classics “Let’s Stay Together,” “Tired of Being Alone,” and “Love and Happiness.” With his signature smooth soulful voice and ability to effortlessly blend elements of gospel, R&B, and soul, Al Green has left an undeniable mark on the music industry and has inspired countless artists along the way.

Award-Winning Sound and Impact in Popular Culture

An exceptional cover song that has stood the test of time, “Here I Am (Come and Take Me)” by UB40 has garnered various accolades and recognitions. It climbed to the number 7 spot on the UK Singles Chart and conquered the number 1 position on the US Billboard Hot Rap Singles chart in 1991. Furthermore, this phenomenal track received a silver certification from the British Phonographic Industry (BPI) for its outstanding sales.

As a testament to the timeless appeal of “Here I Am (Come and Take Me),” the song has found its way into numerous forms of media. Audiences might recall the tune’s appearance in the comedy-drama film “Blast from the Past” (1999) starring Brendan Fraser and Alicia Silverstone. Capturing the essence of the film’s storyline, the song’s inclusion enhanced the movie-watching experience for fans.

In addition to making its mark on the big screen, the song has also graced the small screen. The television series “Normal People” featured the track in its soundtrack, adding to the compelling narrative of the show.

The success and influence of UB40’s rendition have inspired several artists to create their own covers of the song. Notable artists like Michael Bolton and Seal have put their unique spins on “Here I Am (Come and Take Me),” demonstrating the enduring power of the song to evoke emotions and continually reinvent itself.

It’s clear that “Here I Am (Come and Take Me)” has made a significant impact on the music industry and popular culture over the years. As an award-winning and widely recognized track, it will undoubtedly continue to enchant audiences and inspire artists for generations to come.

Breaking Down the Melodic Charm

Diving into the technical aspects of “Here I Am (Come and Take Me),” one can’t help but appreciate the intricate details that bring this UB40 classic to life. The song is written in the key of E major, a key that’s known to evoke a warm and vibrant tone, lending itself beautifully to the song’s overall appeal.

The chord progression of the song follows a simple yet effective pattern, beginning with the E major chord, moving on to A major, and finally to B major. This progression repeats throughout the song, providing a solid foundation for the catchy melody and groovy bassline. The simplicity of the chord structure allows for the other elements of the song, such as the horns and vocals, to really shine through, making it a memorable and easily recognizable tune.

As for tempo, UB40’s “Here I Am (Come and Take Me)” clocks in at around 84 beats per minute (BPM), which is considered a moderate pace. This tempo provides a laid-back, reggae-infused groove that is synonymous with UB40’s signature sound. The relaxed pace of the song is perfectly complemented by the syncopated, offbeat rhythm of the guitar, giving it that unmistakable feel that fans have come to know and love.

Another notable feature of this track is the use of the iconic Hammond organ, which lends a vintage, soulful touch to the song. The organ, played by keyboardist Michael Virtue, intertwines seamlessly with the other elements of the song, enhancing its overall depth and richness.

The lush and vibrant horn section, arranged by Brian Travers, is also worth mentioning. The horns add an extra layer of excitement and energy to the track, with their soaring melodies and punchy accents. The saxophone, trumpet, and trombone work together in perfect harmony, providing a powerful and dynamic presence throughout the song.

In summary, the magic of “Here I Am (Come and Take Me)” lies in its intricate blend of melody, harmony, and rhythm. The simple yet effective chord progression, the laid-back tempo, and the carefully arranged instrumentation all come together to create a timeless classic that continues to captivate listeners to this day.