As well as songs written by Prince Buster, Madness also covered this one which was composed and first performed by Labi Siffre, becoming his first UK hit after his previous release Pretty Little Girl (Make My Day) failed to make the charts.

Labi Siffre: It Must Be Love

For comparison purposes here is Madness’s version.

Madness: It Must be Love

Labi Siffre is remembered more for writing It Must Be Love (which, of course, Madness made into a big hit) and his signature tune Something Inside So Strong.

This, though, was his first single – but not much of a hit.

While clearly being about a proud and loving father doting on his daughter I wonder if nowadays this song might be frowned upon as having an unfortunate subtext.

Labi Siffre: Pretty Little Girl (Make My Day)