The Undertones - Got to Have You Back

What this video is

Released in February 1983, 'Got to Have You Back' represents The Undertones' final artistic chapter — a deliberate turn from their punk-pop origins toward Motown and soul, influenced by ABC and Smokey Robinson. The single was a cover of the Isley Brothers' 1967 recording. It was released under mounting commercial pressure from EMI following the band's declining chart performance since Positive Touch (1981). The…

Why it matters

Marks the final phase of one of the UK's defining post-punk groups, uniquely bridging the Derry punk scene with Motown revivalism. As a soul cover produced within a punk lineage, the video documents a rare genre crossover moment, and its direction by Don Letts — an architect of the punk-reggae…

The director

Don Letts (born 10 January 1956, London) is a British film director, DJ, and musician. He rose to prominence as videographer for The Clash, directing several of their music videos, and went on to direct over 300 music videos for artists ranging from Bob…