“Kingston Town” is a smooth reggae ballad by UB40, released in March 1990 with “Lickwood” on the B-side as the second single from their album Labour of Love II. The song became one of UB40’s most beloved hits, known for its laid-back rhythm, dreamy melody, and romantic lyrics.
Originally, Kingston Town was recorded in 1970 by Lord Creator, a Trinidadian-Calypso singer, but UB40’s polished reggae cover introduced the song to a global audience.
The song is a nostalgic ode to Kingston, Jamaica, describing it as a place of beauty, dreams, and longing. The narrator expresses his desire to be a king in Kingston Town, living a life of happiness and love, creating a sense of wistful fantasy and escapism.
UB40’s version features gentle reggae rhythms, warm brass instrumentation, and Ali Campbell’s signature smooth vocals, creating a relaxing and romantic atmosphere. The song’s mellow, easygoing feel made it a perfect fit for UB40’s signature reggae-pop sound.
The song was a commercial success, reaching No. 4 on the UK Singles Chart and performing well across Europe and Australia – it topped the charts in France and the Netherlands. It became a radio staple and remains one of UB40’s most enduring and frequently played tracks.