Introduction
Love often finds its way into music, capturing emotions that words alone struggle to express. For many, the song “It Must Be Love” resonates as a melodic testament to the inexplicable joys and uncertainties of falling head over heels. First brought to life by Labi Siffre, the song has since become a hallmark of romantic expression in popular music, with a timeless charm that has inspired artists and audiences alike.
About the Composition
- Title: It Must Be Love
- Composer: Labi Siffre
- Premiere Date: 1971 (original version by Labi Siffre)
- Album/Opus/Collection: Crying Laughing Loving Lying
- Genre: Pop/Soul
Background
“It Must Be Love” was written and originally performed by British singer-songwriter Labi Siffre in 1971. The song was released as part of his third studio album, Crying Laughing Loving Lying. Inspired by the warm, universal theme of love, Siffre’s tender lyrics and heartfelt melody create a relatable and enduring narrative. While the song enjoyed moderate success during its initial release, it gained renewed popularity when the British ska/pop band Madness covered it in 1981. Their lively rendition climbed to the top charts, embedding the track in the cultural zeitgeist. This dual legacy—as both a soulful ballad and an upbeat anthem—cements “It Must Be Love” as a versatile classic.
Musical Style
The original version by Labi Siffre is defined by its gentle, acoustic soul sound. The arrangement is minimalistic, centering on acoustic guitar and Siffre’s warm, emotive vocals. This simplicity enhances the sincerity of the lyrics, letting the theme of love take center stage.
The Madness version, by contrast, injects a playful, ska-inspired energy. It features a fuller instrumental backing, including brass sections and upbeat rhythms, giving the song a lively, celebratory feel. Both versions highlight the adaptability of the composition, showcasing its ability to evoke both introspection and joy.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “It Must Be Love” explore the overwhelming realization of being in love, expressed through lines like:
“I never thought I’d miss you half as much as I do.”
The straightforward yet profound words capture the vulnerability and excitement of love—an emotion both deeply personal and universally understood. The juxtaposition of heartfelt simplicity with profound depth makes the song’s message resonate across generations.
Performance History
Upon its release, Labi Siffre’s original version received critical acclaim for its earnestness and musicality. However, it wasn’t until Madness’s cover in 1981 that the song achieved commercial success, reaching No. 4 on the UK Singles Chart. Madness’s rendition became a staple of their live performances and is often cited as one of their most beloved tracks.
Over the years, “It Must Be Love” has been featured in numerous films, television shows, and advertisements, ensuring its enduring presence in popular culture. Notable covers and performances have kept the song fresh and relevant for contemporary audiences.
Cultural Impact
“It Must Be Love” has transcended its original release to become a cultural touchstone. Madness’s version, in particular, is synonymous with the joy and exuberance of falling in love, often used in wedding playlists, rom-com soundtracks, and love-themed media. Its use in advertising campaigns and nostalgic retrospectives has solidified its status as a timeless love anthem.
The song’s ability to appeal across genres and generations—from soulful ballads to ska-pop reinterpretations—speaks to its universal relatability and enduring charm.
Legacy
Today, “It Must Be Love” remains a cherished classic, celebrated for its simplicity, sincerity, and adaptability. Whether in its original soulful form or Madness’s spirited cover, the song continues to resonate with listeners worldwide, embodying the timeless magic of love in musical form.
Conclusion
“It Must Be Love” is a song that effortlessly captures the essence of love—its joy, its wonder, and its profundity. Whether you’re a fan of Labi Siffre’s soulful original or Madness’s lively ska rendition, the track invites you to reflect on the beauty of love in all its forms. To truly appreciate its charm, revisit both versions and discover how a single composition can speak to the heart in myriad ways. For a heartwarming experience, start with Labi Siffre’s tender original and then dive into Madness’s infectious cover. You’ll find yourself humming along and maybe even falling in love all over again
Video
Lyrics
First I get cold then hot
Think I’m on fire I’m not
Oh what a pain I’ve got it must be love
There’s nothing I can do
All that I want is you
Look what I’m going through it must be love
It must be love it must be love
I fall like a sparrow and fly like a dove
You must be the dream I’ve been dreamin’ of
Oh what a feelin’ it must be love
Something is wrong alright
I think of you all night
Can’t sleep ’till mornin’ light it must be love
Seein’ you in my dreams
Holdin’ you close to me
Oh what else can it be it must be love
It must be love it must be love
I fall like a sparrow and fly like a dove
You must be the dream I’ve been dreamin’ of
Oh what a feelin’ it must be love
It must be love it must be love
I fall like a sparrow and fly like a dove
You must be the dream I’ve been dreamin’ of
Oh what a feelin’ it must be love
It must be love it must be love
I fall like a sparrow and fly like a dove
You must be the dream I’ve been dreamin’ of
Oh what a feelin’ it must be love
It must be love it must be love
I fall like a sparrow and fly like a dove
You must be the dream I’ve been dreamin’ of
Oh what a feelin’ it must be love
It must be love it must be love
I fall like a sparrow and fly like a dove
You must be the dream I’ve been dreamin’ of