The song, “It Must Be Love”, was originally recorded by Labi Siffre in 1971

Reggae/Soul tune “It Must Be Love” was written and recorded by Labi Siffre (b.1945) for his third studio album, “Crying Laughing Loving Lying” in 1971. It was released as the lead single and became his very first charting song, reaching No.14 in the UK. The song is one of only two to make the UK top 40 for him, he would have to wait until 1987 before his other, “(Something Inside) So Strong” (UK No.4).

Ten years after its release, British ska/pop group Madness recorded the song for their best of album, “Complete Madness”. It was released in November and peaked at No.4 and made the US chart also, where it climbed to No.33. The single was re-released in 1992 to coincide with another complilation, “Divine Madness”. This re-issue also charted top ten in the UK at number six.

But whose version is the best? LABI SIFFRE’s original or MADNESS’ cover?

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