Sing Our Own Song

UB40

About Sing Our Own Song

"Sing Our Own Song" is a song and single written and performed by British group UB40. It featured backing singers Jaki Graham, Mo Birch and Ruby Turner and was the ninth and final track on their album Rat in the Kitchen. Released in 1986 it reached 5, on the UK charts, staying for nine weeks. It made 1 on the Dutch charts in 1986. The song was written as an anti-apartheid song and was censored in South Africa. Featuring the ANC rallying cry of "Amandla Awethu", it is considered a protest song of the time.  


Year:
2008
4:06
135 
#1

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The great flood of tears that we've cried
For our brothers and sisters who've died
Over four hundred years
Has washed away our fears
And strengthened our pride
Now we turn back the tide

We will no longer hear your command
We will seize the control from your hand
We will fan the flame
Of our anger and pain
And you'll feel the shame
For what you do in gods name

We will fight for the right to be free
We will build our own society
And we will sing, we will sing
We will sing our own song

When the ancient drum rhythms ring
The voice of our forefathers sings
Forward Africa run
Our day of freedom has come
For me and for you
Amandla Awethu

We will fight for the right to be free
We will build our own society
And we will sing, we will sing
We will sing our own song

We will fight for the right to be free
We will build our own society
And we will sing, we will sing
We will sing our own song

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UB40

UB40 are a British reggae/pop band formed in 1978 in Birmingham, England. The band has placed more than 50 singles in the UK Singles Chart, and has also achieved considerable international success. The band has been nominated for the Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album four times, and in 1984, they were nominated for the Brit Award for Best British Group. One of the world's best-selling music artists, UB40 have sold over 70 million records. more »

2 fans

Written by: Jim Brown, Ali Campbell, Robin Campbell, Earl Falconer, Norman Hassan, Brian Travers, Michael Virtue, Terrence Oswald Wilson

Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


18 facts about this song

Genre
"Sing Our Own Song" is classed under the musical genre of reggae.
Release Date
The song was released in July 1986.
Album Details
The track is part of UB40's seventh album called "Rat in the Kitchen."
Chart Performance
"Sing Our Own Song" was a major hit for UB40, and it reached number five on the UK Singles Chart.
Political Significance
The song was written as an anthem of hope and freedom for the people suffering under apartheid in South Africa.
Band Members
UB40, the band behind the song, included members Ali Campbell, Astro, and Mickey Virtue.
Critical Acclaim
The song received widespread acclaim for its catchy tune, meaningful lyrics, and engaging rhythm.
Banned Song
Interestingly, "Sing Our Own Song" was reportedly banned by the South African government when it was released.
Notable Lyrics
The lyrics of the song have been widely praised for the powerful line, "We will fight for the right to be free. We will build our own society."
Impact on Band's Career
The success of "Sing Our Own Song" solidified UB40's status as one of the most popular reggae bands of the 1980s.
Live Performances
Despite being released over 30 years ago, "Sing Our Own Song" remains a staple at UB40's live performances.
Unique Music Video
The music video for "Sing Our Own Song" features the band performing amongst a crowd of protesters, symbolizing unity and resistance.
Tribute to Nelson Mandela
The band has stated that the song was also a tribute to Nelson Mandela, who was in prison at the time of the song's release.
Songwriters
"Sing Our Own Song" was written by band members James Brown, Ali Campbell, Robin Campbell, Earl Falconer, Norman Hassan, Brian Travers, Michael Virtue, and Terence Wilson.
Longevity
Despite being released in the mid-'80s, "Sing Our Own Song" continues to be loved and listened to by fans worldwide, testifying the song's timeless appeal.
Crossover Appeal
Although UB40 is primarily a reggae band, "Sing Our Own Song" also enjoys considerable popularity among pop music fans.
Stand Against Racism
The song is considered an important stand against racial injustice and is often highlighted in discussions about protest songs.
Cover Versions
A number of artists have covered and sampled "Sing Our Own Song" over the years, a testament to its enduring popularity.

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