Who Wrote “Red Red Wine”? The Story Behind the Iconic Song

If you’ve ever found yourself swaying to the smooth melody of “Red Red Wine,” you’re not alone. This classic tune, with its easy-going reggae vibe and heartfelt lyrics, has become a fan favourite around the world. But when it comes to the burning question, “Who wrote ‘Red Red Wine’?”—the answer might surprise you!

The Origins of “Red Red Wine”

While many people associate “Red Red Wine” with the British reggae group UB40, the song’s origins trace back much earlier. In fact, it was written by none other than the legendary American singer-songwriter Neil Diamond.

Yes, you read that correctly—Neil Diamond! Known for his string of pop hits in the 1960s and 1970s, such as “Sweet Caroline” and “Cracklin’ Rosie,” Diamond penned “Red Red Wine” in 1967. His version of the song, which appeared on his album Just for You, had a more folk-pop feel than the reggae version many of us are familiar with today.

A Song of Heartbreak and Healing

“Red Red Wine” is a song about heartbreak and using a glass of wine to numb the pain of lost love. The lyrics, written with simplicity and emotional clarity, reflect a deep longing for relief. Diamond’s original version wasn’t as commercially successful as some of his other hits, but it struck a chord with listeners, who appreciated its vulnerability and relatable theme.

Here’s a snippet of the original lyrics:

Red red wine, go to my head
Make me forget that I
Still need her so.

These words encapsulate the timeless feeling of trying to move on after a breakup, a theme that resonates with listeners across generations.

UB40’s Famous Cover: A Reggae Twist

If you’re thinking, “Wait a minute—I thought ‘Red Red Wine’ was a reggae song!” you’re not wrong. The most well-known version of the song was recorded by UB40, a British reggae band, in 1983. But here’s the interesting part: when UB40 decided to cover the song, they had no idea that Neil Diamond was the original writer.

Instead, UB40 based their version on a cover by Jamaican singer Tony Tribe, who gave the song its signature reggae flavour in 1969. UB40’s interpretation, with its catchy rhythm and island vibe, skyrocketed to success, reaching number one on the UK Singles Chart and later topping the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States.

A Song with Many Lives

Neil Diamond himself has expressed his admiration for UB40’s version, and the song’s journey from a folk-pop ballad to a reggae hit is a testament to its universal appeal. Diamond has even performed the reggae version in concerts, acknowledging the incredible transformation his song has undergone.

So, while UB40 brought “Red Red Wine” into the global spotlight, it’s important to remember that its origins lie with Neil Diamond. The combination of Diamond’s heartfelt lyrics and UB40’s infectious rhythm has made “Red Red Wine” an enduring classic that continues to bring joy and comfort to listeners around the world.

The Final Toast: Who Wrote “Red Red Wine”?

In summary, the answer to “Who wrote ‘Red Red Wine’?” is Neil Diamond. His 1967 creation has been beautifully reinterpreted by artists like Tony Tribe and UB40, proving that a great song can evolve and take on new forms while retaining its emotional core.

So, next time you hear “Red Red Wine,” whether it’s Diamond’s folk original or UB40’s reggae version, you’ll know the story behind the song—and perhaps raise a glass to the power of music to transcend genres and generations.