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UB40’s Signing Off is the band’s 1980 debut album: a reggae-and-dub record shaped by working-class life and political concerns in Birmingham. Its title refers both to leaving the unemployment-benefit system and to the group announcing itself as a working band. The original release paired a 10-track LP with a three-track 12-inch record; later editions add material and alter the listening sequence.
What is UB40’s Signing Off about?
The album brings reggae and dub together with songs addressing social and political subjects, including racism, famine, inequality, imperialism and the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. Those themes are part of the record’s identity, not a separate set of topical references: the music and its Birmingham perspective give the debut its character.
Musically, it is built around reggae’s bass-led grooves and dub production effects. It is best understood as a debut statement from a local band responding to its circumstances, rather than as a collection assembled around later hits.
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UB40 takes its name from the British unemployment-benefit attendance card, and the album cover reproduces that yellow card. “Signing off” evokes leaving the benefit system; as an album title, it also marks the band’s emergence as a working group. The bureaucratic object becomes both a record of economic circumstances and a distinctive piece of pop identity.
#1 Best Overall
![Signing Off[Translucent Red 2 LP]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51R4QUz7-TL._SL160_.jpg)
- Signing Off is UB40's revolutionary debut album
How successful was UB40’s debut album?
Released in the UK on 29 August 1980 through independent label Graduate Records, Signing Off reached number 2 on the UK Albums Chart. Official Charts records 71 weeks on its main albums chart, while UB40’s official history summarizes the run as 72 weeks. The difference reflects the sources’ reported totals; both document a substantial chart run.
Which edition should you choose?
The right edition depends on whether you want the original physical presentation and sequence, extra tracks, or convenient digital access. The original configuration was a 10-track LP accompanied by a three-track 12-inch record. Later CD and digital versions may present different sequencing and additional material.
| Edition or format | What to expect | Best suited to |
|---|---|---|
| Original LP plus 12-inch | 10-track LP and an accompanying three-track 12-inch record | Listeners and collectors interested in the original physical configuration and artwork |
| Standard later CD or digital edition | Later presentation; track sequencing and included material can differ from the original physical configuration | Convenient listening; check the specific listing for track details |
| 2010 remastered deluxe edition | Apple Music lists a 22-song edition | Listeners seeking bonus material alongside the album |
For the original physical design, look for the yellow unemployment-card sleeve and confirm the pressing details in the seller’s listing. For the deluxe digital version, Apple Music identifies the 2010 remastered edition as 22 songs. If buying vinyl, search for UB40 Signing Off vinyl; listings, prices and pressing details vary, so verify them before ordering.
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- Import
- Out of Print
Rank #3
Where to check the album’s history and editions
- Official Charts’ album entry documents its UK chart position and chart run, and surfaces purchase links.
- UB40’s official site provides the band’s historical account, including its summary of the album’s chart run.
- Apple Music lists the album and the 2010 remastered deluxe edition.
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