Who Sang Red Red Wine

Picture this – you're sitting on the couch, sipping your favourite red wine, and before you know it, you're humming the tune of that catchy song intertwined with the words "red red wine". But who actually sang the iconic "Red Red Wine"? Don't worry, we'll take you on a journey to rediscover this classic track that remains a household favourite for many wine lovers. So, pour yourself a glass and get ready to dive into the history and evolution of this timeless anthem.

The Original "Red Red Wine"

Believe it or not, "Red Red Wine" was originally written and performed by the legendary singer-songwriter, Neil Diamond. Diamond released the song in 1967 as a part of his album, 'Just for You'. While it did receive some attention, the song wasn't a massive hit for him.

UB40's Version

In 1983, British reggae-pop band UB40 took this song and turned it into the global smash hit that we all know and love today. Their reggae-style rendition was a part of their successful album, 'Labour of Love'. The band's laid-back reggae vibes and catchy chorus breathed new life into the song and resonated with the 80's music scene. UB40's "Red Red Wine" reached number one on the UK Singles Chart and later on the US Billboard Hot 100, making it one of their most recognisable hits.

The Band's Style & Influence

UB40 is known for their unique fusion of reggae and pop, which is apparent in their rendition of "Red Red Wine". The band's name, incidentally, came from an unemployment benefit form in the UK, reflecting their working-class background and social conscience. Their music often tackled political and social issues, while also producing feel-good tunes that made people want to dance.

Different Versions of "Red Red Wine"

Interestingly, there have been numerous cover versions of the song. Some notable examples include:

• Jimmy James and the Vagabonds - 1968
• Tony Tribe - 1969 (reggae-style cover that inspired UB40)
• Vic Dana - 1970
• Bob Marley's son, Ziggy Marley, also covered the song during a live performance in 2014

UB40's version notably stands out due to its distinctive reggae flavor, making it the most popular adaptation of the track. The band even released an extended version of the song in 1988 with additional verses.

Who Sang Red Red Wine Example:

Imagine attending one of Black Wine Club's wine tasting and live electronic music events, and suddenly you hear the all-too-familiar chorus of "Red Red Wine" echoing through the venue. Everyone begins singing along to the timeless lyrics while enjoying their finest wine selections. As you sip on your glass of red wine, you can't help but feel connected to the song's rich history and the diverse range of artists who have covered it over the years.

Now that you know who sang the beloved "Red Red Wine", you can fully appreciate the journey it took from Neil Diamond's original creation to the reggae version that became ingrained in pop culture. The next time you pour yourself a glass of red wine, we encourage you to crank up UB40's iconic cover and let it transport you back in time. Don't forget to share this article with your fellow wine and music enthusiasts, and if you're thirsty for more wine-related content and stories, dive into the treasure trove of inspiring and informative guides offered by Black Wine Club.