"Signing Off" is the debut album by British reggae band, UB40. It was released in the United Kingdom on 29 August 1980 in a double LP format by Dudley-based independent label Graduate Records. The album's title refers to their having been on unemployment benefit at the time of recording.
The combination of their unique sound blending reggae with somber social commentary quickly resonated. "Signing Off" features the landmark single, "Food for Thought," which hit the UK Top 10 and "King," a song about the late Martin Luther King Jr.
Produced by Bob Lamb, the album's content is a mix of reggae and dub music, with political themes reflecting the band's social and political leanings. The dub mixes in the album represented one of the earliest forms of dub to hit the UK mainstream market. UB40's version of reggae was distinctive, and "Signing Off" helped the band garner a large and dedicated fan base.
The album cover depicting a reproduction of the UK's 'UB40' unemployment benefit card, from which the band took their name, also added to its striking appeal.
It was well-received by critics and audience alike upon its release, and it has since been hailed as a seminal work in the British reggae genre. The album remained in the UK albums chart for 71 weeks, peaking at number two, further establishing its enduring popularity.
