UB40 & Chrisse Hynde – I Got You Babe

Few cover versions manage to completely reinvent the character of a familiar song, but UB40’s “I Got You Babe” brings a distinctly reggae flavour to Sonny Bono’s enduring love song. Recorded with Chrissie Hynde of The Pretenders, the version appeared on UB40’s 1985 album Baggariddim, combining the band’s relaxed reggae rhythms with Hynde’s unmistakable vocal presence.

The collaboration had its roots in an earlier association between UB40 and The Pretenders, who had toured together. Ali Campbell and Hynde eventually recorded the song as a genuine duet, with the two singers facing each other in the studio while working through complete takes. The finished vocal was assembled from different sections of those performances.

Musically, UB40 resist the temptation to overproduce the recording. A deep bassline and gently rolling rhythm provide the foundation, while keyboards, brass and percussion add colour without crowding the vocals. The arrangement retains the warmth and simplicity of the original while giving it a laid-back Birmingham reggae character.

Hynde’s slightly husky delivery contrasts beautifully with Campbell’s softer voice, making the song feel like a natural conversation between two lovers. The result is affectionate, relaxed and unmistakably UB40, demonstrating how effectively the band could transform familiar pop material through their distinctive reggae sound.

The song peaked at No. 01 in the UK singles chart on 31st August 1985.