Pupils at a primary school in Birmingham studying the musical and cultural impact of global reggae stars UB40 are to perform to the band at a special assembly on Monday 27 February 2023.
Teachers at St Edward's Catholic Primary School added learning about the influential Brummie musicians to their Oracy Curriculum as a way of introducing different music genres to children and develop their understanding of culture, identity, and community.
Members of the bestselling Birmingham band will appear at the special event, where the Selly Park school children from Reception class up to Year 6 will present their research, and sing a selection of the seminal group's hits including Rat in mi Kitchen, Kingston Town, and Can't Help Falling in Love.
Natalie Carry, Deputy Head Teacher at St Edward's, said: “Music is a universal language and is an integral part of our lives.
“We know from research that there are clear scientific benefits that come from listening to music and singing. We also want children to be exposed to a wide range of music genres from various eras.
“This year, we, encouraged classes to research UB40 – chosen as we felt that the band and their history would be relatable in so many ways to our children and families. With the band having formed in Birmingham and playing their first gig at The Hare and Hounds in Kings Heath, where many of our children live, this was a great starting point.
“Additionally, the band reflects the diverse nature of our city in the same way as our school does both culturally and economically. With over 100 million albums sold worldwide, 50 UK Top 40 singles and 10 UK Top 10 albums, UB40 are the most decorated and successful Reggae group of all time.
Formed in Birmingham in 1978, they proudly wore their working-class roots on their sleeves, championing causes and concerns on songs that tackled political and social issues head-on. Capturing the hearts, minds, and dancing feet of disaffected British youth, that loyal audience has grown and evolved with them over the past 45 years, thanks to the power and importance of music that continues to resonate today as they fly the flag for the many.