One In Ten

UB40's song 'One In Ten' is a poignant commentary on the overlooked and marginalized individuals in society. The title itself refers to the statistic that one in ten people are often forgotten or ignored, reduced to mere numbers on a list. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of various individuals who suffer from societal neglect, ranging from the unemployed and malnourished to the homeless and the ill. Each verse introduces a new character, emphasizing their struggles and the indifference they face from the world around them.

The song uses powerful metaphors and imagery to convey its message. For instance, the 'dole queen' and 'malnutrition dulls my hair' highlight the plight of those dependent on welfare and suffering from poverty. The 'beggar on the corner' and the 'child that never learns to read' symbolize the systemic failures that perpetuate cycles of poverty and ignorance. The recurring line 'I am a one in ten, even though I don't exist' underscores the feeling of invisibility and insignificance experienced by these individuals.

UB40, known for their reggae-influenced sound, often tackle social and political issues in their music. 'One In Ten' is no exception, serving as a stark reminder of the human cost of societal neglect. The song challenges listeners to recognize and address the suffering of those who are often ignored. It calls for empathy and action, urging society to see beyond the statistics and acknowledge the real people behind the numbers. The song's enduring relevance speaks to the ongoing issues of inequality and social injustice that persist in many parts of the world.