It Must Be Love (3:25)

“It Must Be Love” is a song originally written and recorded in 1971 by Labi Siffre. However, the best known version was recorded by ska/pop band Madness in 1981.

The song was featured in the 1989 movie, The Tall Guy starring Jeff Goldblum, Rowan Atkinson and Emma Thompson. Suggs also appeared in the movie whilst singing this song. The single was reissued to tie in with the film but was not a hit on that occasion.

A version with altered lyrics was used to advertise Midland Bank in 1994, and Madness’ version was also used to advertise LoveFilm in 2009. Siffre’s original version also appeared in a 2007 UK television advertisement for Vodafone.

The singer of the belgian group Arid, Jasper Steverlinck, also released a cover of this song.

Releases

The original Labi Siffre recording was released as a single in 1971, and reached number 14 in the UK singles chart. It also appeared on his 1972 album Crying Laughing Loving Lying.

Madness’ version was originally issued as a standalone single in 1981 and appeared on their UK number one compilation album Complete Madness the following year, and on many other Madness compilations since. In 1983, it peaked in the US Billboard Magazine chart at #33.

The video mostly shows band members playing in a white room and standing over a grave. It also features guitarist Chris Foreman and saxophonist Lee Thompson playing their instruments underwater.