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Concert Review: UB40 Featuring Ali Campbell Live in Fremantle

1st of February 2024 at the Fremantle Prison – Perth, Western Australia

Review by Erica Lorimer

Photography by Lorimer Images

A pulsating heartbeat propagates as the evening “doctor” cools a heatwave in Fremantle and heralds the arrival of a world’s premier reggae band.  Within the derelict prison walls a capacity crowd awaits, as the venue is transformed into a throbbing hub of reggae rhythms and swags.  The mighty UB40 are here in town.

Few bands can endure a four-decade journey and consistently performing in sold out shows, which delight an eclectic fan base across the generations between 8 and 80. Ali Campbell , a founding member and frontman of the original lineup for three decades, now tours globally under the banner of UB40 Featuring Ali Campbell . 

Hailing from Birmingham, UK, UB40’s music has been shaped by a rich cultural mix which blends Jamaican reggae, jazz, blues, and calypso styles.  Making music they genuinely love, UB40 have propelled reggae onto the world stage by establishing a distinctive identity and popularising the genre with massive hits such as “Red Red Wine”.

After local talent Toby Beard’s energetic opening, UB40’s ten-piece band, led by MC Frank Benbini (aka Franky B), takes the stage.  Franky B is a charismatic ringmaster sporting his signature red Kangol Bermuda bucket hat and hypes up the energy all night calling to the crowd exclaims, “My name is Frank B, and I bring the par-teeee!”

Ali Campbell, the main man himself, takes the stage.  His enduring impact on the band is undeniable, praised by many for the distinctive quality and signature accent of his voice.  The show opens fittingly with “Here I am (Come and Take Me),” one of their most successful hits of 1991, reaching number 3 on the charts in Australia.

The next song, a cover of the Temptations’ 1964 timeless gem, “The Way You Do the Things You Do”, adds a laid-back Caribbean style rhythm and signature steel drums.  The song presents UB40 at its best by adapting covers with a breezy and distinctive reggae tune.  More chill favourites follow including “Homely Girl” and the classic “Cherry Oh Baby”, originally written by Smokey Robinson.

From an elevated vantage point on the prison wall’s high guard’s walk, this photographer and writer enjoys the scene below of a huge crowd bouncing in harmony to the rhythm.  A friend beside me remarks that “the singing is worthy of a Manchester United soccer game”.

UB40’s hugely successful single “One In Ten” is next.  Released in 1981, this song became a British protest anthem, echoing the socially charged tunes of Caribbean legends like Bob Marley.  “Versioned” by Jamaican reggae acts, the lyrics are a commentary on societal inequality and harsh realities that many people overlook: “Nobody knows me, but I’m always there. A statistical reminder of a world that doesn’t care.”

A memorable moment for many was their reggae tribute to Prince’s “Purple Rain”.  Introduced with British self-deprecating humour, a style lapped up by the Aussie crowd, Franky B amusingly shared, “Well, we sent the recording to him (Prince), and we reckon he liked it because, you know, he didn’t say anything.”

Following the cover of “Many Rivers to Cross,” the stage is bathed in red light. The crowd, catching the cue, enthusiastically joins in the chorus of the acclaimed anthem “Red Red Wine.”  This reggae-infused rendition of Neil Diamond’s song peaked at number 2 in Australia in 1983 and is possibly one of the 80’s most iconic songs.

After the band’s well known and loved cover of Elvis Presley’s “(I Can’t Help) Falling In Love”, Franky B introduces the touring talent with playful allusions to herbal escapades and witty nicknames like “Mr De Lips on the trumpet”.  Londoner Adriano on the sax is introduced as “a-nava Italian brava from a different ma-va.”. 

“This must be the most fun ever had in these walls!”.  Franky B’s amusing quips and infectious enthusiasm continues to amuse the crowd, drawing them in with spirited call-and-response interactions.  His playful directive, “So when I say ‘UB,’ you say ’40’!” whips up an already lively audience.

Fans chanting “U B forty” and piercing screams of “Al-lee,” are rewarded with an encore of “Kingston Town”.  Much like “Red, Red Wine,” the lyrics of the Lord Creator’s song are so well known that everyone effortlessly sings along. 

As the night ends, the smiles on those reluctantly heading home reveal just how much UB40 is a source of joy for so many.  Ali and the band must be well chuffed with how things turned out, and we can be sure they’ll come back to Perth soon and welcomed as always as old friends.

The writer would like to thank Face to Face Touring and Sheldon Ang Media for the Press Accreditation.

About the Writer and Photographer :  Erica Lorimer  holds a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) Degree from the University of Western Australia (UWA), majoring in English Literature and Economics, and a Certificate IV in Design. She is also a  freelance photographer   who loves capturing images of live music and travel photography, sometimes with film from vintage cameras and making prints in a home darkroom. 

Sheldon Ang Media  (est. May 2022) have been accredited to photograph and review the likes of Coldplay, Red Hot Chili Peppers, KISS, Robbie Williams plus more than seventy major live shows, with reviews shared by various artists including UB40, Toni Childs, The Wiggles and Delta Goodrem. The founder has also interviewed rockers Ace Frehley (KISS), John Steel (The Animals), Frank Ferrer (Guns N Roses) and many more.

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UB40 at THE CAVERNS REVIEW

at The Caverns | Pelham, Tennessee

September 8, 2022 by traci turner, there is nothing better than a socal summer day with some classic reggae, but inside a cave near nashville with ub40, the original wailers, maxi priest, and big mountain is pretty damn awesome for socal though, you can catch these four legendary artists on september 18th when they hit the equally legendary hollywood bowl for an evening of reggae jams., the four acts are on the road as part of ub40’s bigga baggariddim tour which has been crossing north america before heading to the uk and australia. it is also the first time england’s ub40 has been back on our shores since 2019. when we spoke to ub40 founding member robin campbell and new vocalist matt doyle recently, they promised to bring us a fabulous show – which they did – and intended to enjoy truck stops across the country – which, according to their insta, they are, san diego’s big mountain opened the show with, “are you ready for some reggae” and the diverse crowd gave a cheer. front-man joaquin “quino” mcwhinney kicked things off with the cover of “get together,” and the lyrics “come on, people now, smile on your brother, everybody get together, try to love one another right now” truly fit the mood of their performance. after the song, he said, “reggae brings people together,” which the crowd seemed to agree with as they swayed and danced, arms waving high above their heads..

They did an original, “I’m Calling You Out,” and Quino said, “Reggae is love,” before going into Al Green’s “Let’s Stay Together,” which drew a huge response from the audience. A cover of “Where Do the Children Play?” was followed by an introduction of the band members and the announcement that the next song would be their new single, released this Christmas: “Hotel California.” It was a perfect version of the song and I look forward to purchasing it.

Quino asked the crowd, “are you ready for the big tune” before they launched into their 1994 radio hit, “baby i love your way.” the cheers showed people were in fact ready for it, and maybe some of them even remembered it was featured in the movie “reality bites.” i really enjoyed big mountain as they had such a great, chill vibe and i look forward to plugging some of their songs into my playlist..

Up next was British-born Jamaican Maxi Priest, and his band came out loud! They started off with the song that launched his career, his version of Cat Stevens’ “Wild World.” His brand of reggae fusion has made him made him one of the top artists in the genre, and really, his sound was the first of its kind. It has brought him Grammy nominations and his energetic performance can be describe as reggae, hip hop, R&B, rock, and really… just Maxi Priest! New Kidz joined him on vocals for much of the performance and hyped up the crowd on multiple occasions, even leading an “exercise class.” There was a lot of dancing, much arm waving, plenty of jumping, even some sensual pelvic action happening. These guys might steal your girl, but you won’t care because you will be having a blast.

Maxi said he felt blessed more than once and was appreciative of the crowd, and ran through originals like “my pillow” and “believe in love.” there was a lot of crowd singing, call and response, and at one point, he had everyone turn on their phone lights to light up the entire cave for an extra cool atmosphere., in the early 2000s, there was a rumor maxi would front ub40, but it was only for a song collaboration, so i found it interesting that maxi priest and ub40 are the only two british reggae acts to have an american billboard number one song and here they are on tour together maxi wrapped his set with the song that gave him that number one in 1990, “close to you.” the fans seemed to enjoy the energy and party vibe of his set and gave him an appreciative send off..

Halfway through the show it was time for The Original Wailers, and wow! I was impressed! Al Anderson, the American guitarist chosen by Bob Marley when he went solo in 1974 – which means Anderson’s work includes the 10 times platinum “Legend” album – greeted the crowd. The first song, “I Shot the Sheriff,” drew a huge response right away and once again, the cave had that chill, swaying vibe. They played hit after hit: “Stir It Up,” “Could You Be Loved,” and “Three Little Birds” which had the crowd taking over singing duty on the chorus. Lead vocalist Chet Samuel is fantastic and sounded flawless on the Marley tunes as well as their own songs (they recently released a new song, “ Song of the Divine”).

After “buffalo soldier,” they closed their set with one of my favorites, “is this love,” and samuel performed the final verse without music – just bare vocals – and it was stunning. a wonderful finish for the original wailers..

The show had not been doing much with lighting for the first three acts, so I was unprepared when the lights went down and an excited murmur started in the room, er, cave. The members of UB40 came striding in from the back of the cave, through the crowd, and the lights started flashing like a “regular” concert; my excitement shot up with everyone else and the guys commanded our attention immediately!

The music started right away with “here i am (come and take me)” and each horn player would solo a little, work the crowd, and switch places which gave a taste of what the remainder of the show would be – a well-orchestrated performance. i have seen ub40 several times and have always enjoyed them, and perhaps that is why; they are professionals, in sync, having a great time, and know their stuff..

With Matt Doyle as the new voice, I have to say – phenomenal! He truly sounds amazing and it IS UB40. He looks comfortable onstage and fits in perfectly. He took them through “Sing Our Own Song” and during “The Way You Do the Things You Do,” which got a big response, they paused mid-song and the crowd erupted in cheers until they jumped back into the song.

Founding member robin campbell greeted the audience with “this is weird playing in a cave is weird we’re going to play some old tunes and some new tunes, and this is our new vocalist matt. we wrote this song together” before they started the song that became the anthem for the 2022 commonwealth games, “champion.”.

Doyle and Campbell got a singing break as founding member and percussionist Norman Hassan took vocal duties for “Broken.” Campbell then explained the tour was supporting their 2021 album of collaborations, “Bigga Baggariddim.” “With an album of collaborations, you cannot bring all of the collaborators with you on tour, but we do have one with us as Matt collaborated on it with KIOKO, his previous band – before we nicked him!” That collab was the track “You Don’t Call Anymore” and it fits into the UB40 repertoire just right!

Once again, our photographer stephanie was able to enlighten me on something. as i marveled at martin meredith playing saxophone and eliciting steel guitar sounds from his keyboards during a song i did not know, stephanie, “oh yea, that is ‘blue eyes crying in the rain,’ a song made famous by willie nelson.” teamwork makes the dream work..

Speaking of teamwork, I was once again struck by how in sync UB40 was onstage. They would rotate around each other without looking, swapping space, never bumping into each other or the many musical instruments, never missing a beat.

A trio of baby songs – “cherry oh baby,” “i’ll be your baby tonight,” and “baby” – led us into “red red wine” and every single person in our section recorded the entire song. couples that were together both recorded it with their own phones but hey, it is the song we often associate with ub40. they have just released the new version in preparation of their upcoming album, “ub45,” which will celebrate their 45 years as a band., the evening was winding down and they paid tribute to their late sax player, brian travers, who passed away last year. in his honor, they played “kingston town.” for their final song, they played one of my all-time favorite songs, their version of “can’t help falling in love,” and it was… perfect, another wonderful ub40 show and they are headed your way, socal catch ub40, the original wailers, maxi priest, and big mountain september 17th in bakersfield, september 18th in los angeles (hollywood bowl), and september 23rd in san diego. it is a show you cannot miss, the cavern photo gallery, by stephanie pepper photography.

SID 220909 | JIMMY ALVAREZ, EDITOR

UB40 at THE CAVERNS

• Music , News
• June 19, 2023

Linze Watson

#review: ub40’s legendary performance ignites the piece hall, leaving fans dancing in the rain.

What an amazing concert in a superb venue that had fans, old and new, dancing the night away! Arriving at the historic outdoor venue with its magnificent yellow Yorkshire stone was not only impressive, but Cuffe & Taylor and Rhodes Media had organized the event in a meticulous fashion. British reggae legends UB40, featuring Ali Campbell, were one of twenty-two artists/bands in a sensational summer line-up of headliners for Live at The Piece Hall 2023. Plentiful parking, including disability spaces, situated close to the venue, along with swift and organized security checks upon entering, ensured a stress-free start to the night. This was combined with their box office, painted orange, therefore easy to spot, even for me. The staff inside were super friendly and helpful too. I had previously telephoned, asking if, due to the heavy rain and amber weather warning, the concert was still going ahead before we set off from Liverpool. The lady took my number and promised to ring should a decision to postpone/cancel the concert be made en route, and we could turn back. Amazing customer service! With press/guest tickets collected, we entered an electric atmosphere despite the ongoing deluge of rain. Plenty of waterproof ponchos were available to buy along with many bars and food outlets.

The reggae roast was in full swing, with the MCs hyping the crowd and singing many classic and pop songs with a reggae slant. The weather desperately tried but failed to dampen the spirits of the concert-goers as the music ensured everyone was in a party atmosphere. Everywhere you looked, you saw people having a good time, either with friends or as couples. People danced in the rain on the ground floor, danced on the steps, and danced on the VIP balconies. True British spirit!

This was a sold-out outdoor concert in an enclosed quadrangle, giving the potential for trouble. However, the many ‘high vis’ security staff pleasantly mingled with the crowds, anticipating issues that were very few. They adeptly dealt with the odd few drunken skirmishes professionally and swiftly, enabling the carnival atmosphere to carry on.

The MCs hyped the crowd to fever pitch, ready for UB40 to enter the stage. Ali Campbell had the loudest cheer of all, immediately bursting into a medley of their classic tracks, along with some cover songs, a few new songs, and their all-time anthems. After 30 years in the music business, having clocked up more than 40 million record sales with fans worldwide, and regarded as one of the most important and influential British bands of the last 50 years, it is no wonder the crowd chanted back the lyrics to their songs… loudly and enthusiastically! This is a bucket-list band that everyone must see at least once during their lifetime, as it features Ali Campbell, the true voice of UB40, but also has fantastically talented percussion, strings, and wind musicians.

• “Here I am (Come and Take Me)”
• “The Way You Do The Things You Do”
• “Homely Girl”
• “Groovin'”
• “Cherry oh Baby”
• “Unprecedented”
• “One In Ten”
• “Purple Rain”
• “Impossible Love”
• “What Have I Done?”
• “Seems To Me I’m Losing You”
• “I’ll Be There”
• “Guns In The Ghetto”
• “Many Rivers To Cross”
• “Red, Red Wine”
• Encore: Drum Solo, “Food For Thought,” “Kingston Town,” “I Can’t Help Falling In Love with You”

For future tickets at this amazing venue, please contact The Piece Hall, Blackledge, Halifax HX1 1RE by telephone or email at: 01422 525 200 or [email protected].

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Review: UB40's Tribute to Astro at Utilita Arena Birmingham

Thousands of UB40 fans were groovin' at the hottest ticket in town - the UB40 'Tribute to Astro' homecoming concert at the Utilita Arena Birmingham.

The emotional event was a celebration of the life of the homegrown trumpeter and percussionist who passed away on November 6 last year, aged 64, following a short illness.

Reggae fans turned out in their droves to sing and dance the night away when the tour, featuring Ali Campbell, rolled into the city's National Indoor Arena on Saturday night featuring their best known covers as well as new material.

The 10-man band, including two vocalists, took to the stage after warm up dancehall act Reggae Roast with a typical thumping Jamaican sound system feel which set the tone for the show which was attended by members of Astro's family including his widow Dawn Wilson.

Frontman Ali Campbell, clearly feeling emotional spoke only briefly, saying: "Thank you Birmingham. It's good to be home. Birmingham made me."

He opened the lively celebration with Al Green's Here I am, then The Temptations The Way You Do The Things You Do and Homely Girl.

In a tight set, these were followed by a string of hits like Groovin', Eric Donaldson's Cherry Oh Baby and One in Ten, featuring a great guitar solo by Campbell. The original video for One in Ten was was shot in Russia and seemed an apt nod to recent events in Ukraine.

Others included Jimmy Cliff's soulful ballad Many Rivers to Cross and Elvis Presley's I Can't Help Falling in Love.

Mid show, ahead of a further video montage of Astro rapping and dancing with the band, Campbell said: "Make some noise and put your hands together for my brother Astro."

Images of Astro performing in his inimitable style were projected, attracting huge cheers from the crowd who sang along with the video to U-Roy's Wear You to the Ball and Rat in Mi Kitchen.

There was also a moment to remember Jamaican drum and bass star Robbie Shakespeare of Sly and Robbie fame, who died in December, aged 68.

Campbell gave an excellent performance and was in fine voice, although more mellow, and performed new track Unprecedented and, for the first time, the beautiful new track Come back Tomorrow, which seemed to go down a treat with the audience.

Campbell closed the show saying, "Birmingham you have great night" before launching into one of the band's signature hits, Neil Diamond's Red Red Wine, of course joined by Astro on video rapping.

The thoroughly enjoyable show ended on a sombre note without an encore, but simply with album snaps of Astro, a Rastafarian, on the screen.

UB40 fan Richard Timmis, from Walsall, said: "It was a great tribute to Astro from his home fans in Birmingham. It took me back to the first time I saw them in 1990 at what was then the old NEC Arena for their Labour of Love II Tour.

"I love that their music doesn't age and appeals to all generations. When they showed Astro singing 'I'm gonna take you to the ball tonight' the whole arena went wild. He will be missed. 'RIP Astro'."

Astro, real name Terence Wilson, joined UB40 in 1979, but left in 2013 and went on to perform with Campbell following a split.

The Birmingham-based group took its name after a government unemployment benefit form and sold more than 70 million records.

It has been a difficult seven months for the wider UB40 family which has also seen the passing of another founder member, saxophonist Brian Travers, who died, aged 62, last August.

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UB40 is Back with a New Single and U.S. Tour, Guitarist Robin Campbell Talks the Band’s Illustrious History

by Jacob Uitti July 15, 2022, 12:03 pm

When Robin Campbell, guitarist for the legendary reggae band UB40, was growing up in the city of Birmingham, U.K., music was everywhere. He was “born into it,” he says. His father was a “reasonably successful” folk musician with a band and his own club to play in. Campbell remembers sitting on the floor as a kid, listening to his pops and his band rehearsing in their home, too. Other musicians would play his father’s club, also in Birmingham, and then stay the night at the Campbell’s.

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Meanwhile, all around, in the ether practically, Campbell would hear ska and reggae music emanating from the windows of homes. There were a lot of immigrants living in the neighborhood, he says, and Jamaican music would fill the space between the residences. Of course, English pop music from the ’60s and Motown would mix in, too. But Campbell loved reggae and so did his friends and family, many of which would go on to form UB40. Ever since, the band, which is set for a new U.S. tour this summer (from August 18-September 18), went on to sell 100 million records, earn Grammy Awards and leave an imprint on music forever. 

“All of which was a great disappointment to my father,” Campbell says, with a laugh. “Being a folk musician, he lived with the eternal hope that one of us or maybe all of us could have become folk musicians and a part of his band, I think. But we just fell in love with reggae.”

And the band’s latest musical contribution is the new single, “Champion,” which the group released today (July 15). The song, which is the official anthem of the 2022 Commonwealth Games, is also UB40’s first single from their upcoming album, UB45 , which is set to drop next year in celebration of the band’s 45th anniversary.

It’s rare that children directly fall in line with their parent’s wishes. Yet, while music was the shared career of choice, it was the genre that was a left turn for Campbell. Hearing the reggae music, all it did was make him and those close to him in age want to do the same. Thanks to guitar lessons from his uncle, Campbell was “conversant” in guitar and able to join with the friends and family that would form UB40. 

“We saw Bob Marley play in 1976 and that sealed the deal, really,” the now-67-year-old Campbell says. “I just turned to my brothers after that concert and said, ‘If you’re ever serious about doing this, that’s what we’ve got to be doing. And I’m in!”

The original members of UB40 were all from the same area, many of whom went to the same school together. They all hung out, went to the same youth clubs, and later, the same bars and venues. Spent time on the streets together. The band, which was multi-racial, was a hodgepodge of people sharing the same interest. When the band finally formed, there was no question about what style of music they’d produce. It was reggae all the way. And even the friends who didn’t want to be on stage became the group’s road crew. 

“Success came for us really very quickly,” Campbell says. 

It’s true. The band was on the road playing gigs for barely a year when they were noticed and started to create a buzz. Chrissie Hynde of the group The Pretenders saw the band play in London early on and then went backstage to ask if they’d open for her group on their upcoming tour. “That was a shock,” says Campbell. But of course, they said yes. To that point, he says, the band had probably done 30 gigs total. Now they were set to play 30 gigs in a matter of weeks with a famous group. 

“We begged, borrowed, and stole whatever money we needed to get on the road,” Campbell says. “It was a baptism by fire. We were dropped in the deep end.”

The band released its first double A-side single, “King / Food for Thought,” in 1980 while on that tour and the music was a hit, peaking at No. 4 in the U.K. and No. 1 in New Zealand. “King” was a song about Martin Luther King Jr. and “Food for Thought” was about the hypocrisy of Christmas, Campbell has said. After that success, UB40 immediately booked the same tour stops for their own headlining gigs, all of which sold out. At the time, reggae and ska were becoming more and more popular in the mid-20th century, thanks to groups like The Specials and others. 

“We were arrogant enough to think that we deserved it,” Campbell says. “But I think we were still in shock because it was just so incredible. You don’t do these things unless you have dreams. But to have them all come true so quickly was a bit ridiculous.” 

As a unit, UB40, the name of which comes from the British unemployment code, was a group that, collectively, made music that people loved. Outside of that, Campbell can’t really explain the band’s success in any fine point way. If he could, he says, he’d bottle it and sell it. But what he does know is that it’s not a matter of trying to guess what fans will want. Instead, it’s about what the band wants, and what the musicians want, and if everyone is honest about that and can achieve those goals, then everything will fall into place. 

“Once you have that,” he says, “you don’t try and second-guess what your fans think. You just do what you love. You don’t try and keep people happy. You try and keep yourself happy. As long as you’re happy with what you’re doing, chances are the people who love you and follow you will like it, too.” 

To date, UB40 has several now-timeless songs. But perhaps their biggest hit is the cover of “Red Red Wine.” The band plays it at every show, even now. As Campbell notes, the song went No. 1 in dozens of countries. And that popularity has been vindicating, he says. The band’s first few albums were comprised largely of originals. Then the band put out  Labour of Love  in 1983, which included a number of covers, all songs they loved, many of which were from the late ’60s and early ’70s in the “embryonic stages of reggae.” Journalists at the time, Campbell says, kept wondering why this group of Brits played reggae. But as they said it was because they loved the music. So, they proved it with their 1983 album and the cover songs they’ve long adored. What’s funny, though, is that the band thought “Red Red Wine” was originally written by the Jamaican reggae musician Tony Tribe, when really it’s attributed earlier to Neil Diamond. Though there are apocryphal stories that even Diamond didn’t write it and it’s from the 1800s. 

“We had no idea it had anything to do with Neil Diamond,” Campbell says. “We only knew the cover done by the reggae artist Tony Tribe. He made a record that was No. 1 on the reggae charts in 1969. When I was 14 years old, that was a massive tune to me.” 

Today, UB40 is different than when it first started. Original singer Ali Campbell, who is Robin’s youngest brother, left the group, unhappy with business practices. Later, Duncan Campbell, another of Robin’s younger brothers, came in and “reinvigorated” the band. Duncan has since left after health issues forced him out. Now, the group is fronted by Matt Doyle, a longtime reggae singer in the band Kioko, fan of the group, and nephew of UB40 percussionist Norman Hassan. Campbell met Doyle at an awards show where Kioko performed a cover of a UB40 song. Ever since then, he seemed like the perfect replacement frontman. Doyle, in his thirties, jumped at the chance and has been navigating the job ever since. He’s really rounded into shape of late, Campbell says, and as a result, reinspired the band. 

“He really impressed me,” he says. “We feel like we haven’t sounded this good for a long time. He’s a great addition.”

Campbell says he’s happier than ever playing music these days. He’s “excited” for the upcoming tour and, he says, he couldn’t imagine himself doing anything else. Sure, he adds, there have been ups and downs along the way. Times, especially when his brothers departed, when he thought maybe he should hang it up, too. The band also lost saxophonist Brian Travers, who died after a battle with cancer, which was “horrible.” But now, Campbell says, his doubts have subsided. He says he’s “full of life and enthusiasm again.” He can’t imagine stopping. 

“Music is an emotional communication,” Campbell says. “The communication between you and a live audience is special. But you can also have the same emotional communication with a record, you know? If a record can reduce me to tears, which it can, then there’s something special happening. I can’t explain what it is. But it’s a special relationship.” 

8/18/22          River Breeze Events Center                                       Knoxville, TN

8/19/22          The Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre                             Detroit, MI

8/20/22          Rock, Reggae & Relief Festival                                  Pittsburgh, PA

8/21/22          New Jersey Performing Arts Center                          Newark, NJ

8/24/22          Central Park                                                                     New York, NY

8/25/22          House of Blues                                                             Boston, MA

8/26/22          Southside Stage @ XL Live Harrisburg                      Harrisburg, PA

8/27/22          Entertainment & Sports Arena                                     Washington, DC

8/30/22          Jannus Live                                                                  St. Petersburg, FL

9/1/22            Mizner Park Amphitheater                                           Boca Raton, FL

9/2/22            Stockbridge Amphitheater                                        Stockbridge, GA

9/3/22            The Caverns (Above Ground Amphitheater)            Pelham, TN

9/4/22            QC Sound Stage                                                           Charlotte, NC

9/6/22            Saenger Theatre                                                         New Orleans, LA

9/8/22            Payne Arena                                                               Hidalgo, TX

9/9/22            Wild Acre Live                                                              Ft. Worth, TX

9/10/22          Haute Spot Event Venue                                             Austin, TX

9/11/22          Arena Theatre                                                            Houston, TX

9/13/22          Celebrity Theatre                                                       Phoenix, AZ

9/15/22          Mountain Winery                                                          Saratoga, CA

9/16/22          Ironstone Amphitheatre                                              Murphys, CA

9/17/22          Dignity Health Amphitheatre                                    Bakersfield, CA

9/18/22          The Hollywood Bowl                                                    Los Angeles, CA

Photo courtesy Rogers and Cowan PMK

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Concert Review: UB40 with Ali Campbell and Astro with Shaggy Bring Irie Vibes to Boca Raton

By Rick Munroe on September 19, 2019

Both Shaggy and headliner UB40 with Ali Campbell and Astro performed Sunday night to an uplifted and inspired group of concertgoers at Mizner Park Amphitheater on a beautiful full-moon night in Boca Raton.

It has been a very unpredictable past few months in Florida with regard to the constant threat of hurricanes to the area, and the locals are tired, stressed, and ready for a change. Shaggy brought the people of South Florida exactly what they needed–some celebration of peace. While the threat of rain existed, fortunately it didn’t, but with mid-90s high temperatures and above normal humidity, it brought those who attended plenty of sweat-soaked hours of nostalgic reggae music by two of the biggest names in reggae.

Although not the headliner, Shaggy served up a great blend of his most recognized songs combined with a few covers that kick-started a dance party that the thousands in attendance participated in where they sang out loud, danced and waved to the reggae star for nearly the entire set. Attending a Shaggy concert is much like going to carnival, Jamaican style, with the heavy “bump-bump” bass and high-energy fun-filled concert atmosphere where the party doesn’t stop until Shaggy drops the microphone.

The powerful Jamaican-accented voice of Shaggy combined with his backup singers brought out the soul of the “Bad Boy” from Kingston. Shaggy didn’t disappoint; he finds a way into your heart; whether it’s his dancing, gyrations, or charm, he gets to you one way or another. For those who came to hear the Jamaican native’s most noteworthy songs, he delivered, including “Bombastic,” “Angel,” “I Need Your Love,” “Turn Down For What,” and “In The Summertime” He calls out for Jamaicans, and the crowd erupts; he calls out for Caribbeans, and the shouts get even louder. Shaggy delivered an engaging and entertaining show. It was time to wrap up, but he couldn’t leave his audience without the song that defines his “bad boy” image, so Shaggy closed with his biggest and fan-favorite hit “It Wasn’t Me.”

After such an enchanting set, UB40 featuring Ali Campbell and Astro were up for a challenge to deliver a performance of equal or better than Shaggy’s. Certainly, the two have different styles, but the best way to describe UB40’s performance was “chill.” UB40 came complete with an eight-piece band that included a brilliant horn section. Those who came to hear the band’s most recognized songs got what they wanted. The party began with the Al Green cover “Here I Am (Come And Take Me),” which had the audience immediately on their feet.

This version of UB40 includes Ali Campbell and Astro who were key members of the original band that split up some time ago. Having played as a unit for over 30 years, they have helped to define reggae music for several generations. Although being on tour can be exhausting, this show wasn’t about anything loud and crazy or screaming; this was after all a “chill” show. Ali Campbell brought a measured energy on stage as he bounced about in his well-known “J-walk” style of strutting about the stage. This was not a high-energy show; it wasn’t supposed to be, more of a smoke-a-little-ganja-and-sit-back-and-chill type of show. People moved about slowly as they danced in front of their seats, listening to their favorites. The music was satisfying. Both Ali Campbell and Astro still have it. Through the entire show, however, it seemed everyone was waiting for Ali to cut loose and go for it.

UB40 reached mainstream success by re-working very well-know covers from artists like Elvis Presley, Neil Diamond, Al Green and The Temptations. One of the highlights of the night was when the band played “Fijian Sunset,” a magnificant love song that was recorded with both Astro and Mickey.  Ali’s vocals on this song were superb and got everyone going, even just for a little bit. The band played a solid set, sounding great, and had one song left to deliver to their most loyal reggae fans, “Red Red Wine.” As the song ended, Astro waved as he walked off the stage, followed by Ali, who had stayed on a few seconds playing his guitar through the rhythm section. As Ali walked off, the remaining band played out the song, maintaining the tempo and vibe that had been a part of the night.

Whether you just love getting your dance on to reggae music or you genuinely want to celebrate these accomplished music acts, this concert provided those who attended a chance to connect with friends, make new ones, and forget about all the things that divide us as a society. It didn’t matter who you were or where you came from. The only question was, did you know the words to “Red Red Wine”?

UB40 Setlist

If It Happens Again, Wear You to the Ball (John Holt cover), One in Ten, Groovin’ (Byron Lee & The Dragonaires cover), Cherry Oh Baby (Eric Donaldson cover), Homely Girl (The Chi‐Lites cover), The Way You Do the Things You Do (The Temptations cover), Bring Me Your Cup, Strive (Shinehead cover), Impossible Love (Honey Boy cover) Fijian Sunset (Ali Campbell song), Here I Am (Come and Take Me) (Al Green cover), Rat in Mi Kitchen, I’ll Be There , Many Rivers to Cross (Jimmy Cliff cover), Encore: Kingston Town (Lord Creator cover), Can’t Help Falling in Love (Elvis Presley cover), Red Red Wine (Neil Diamond cover)

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UB40 concert reviews and tour history

• reviews: 29
• rating: 77.1% (30)

Fans' concert reviews Read all

Rotterdam ahoy in rotterdam, netherlands on fri, 01 dec 2023.

Het was een onwijs goed concert. Een nieuwe jonge zanger die het heel goed deed. Ruim 2 uur lang alleen maar hits. En hits heeft de band zeker, want ze hadden zo nog 2 uur kunnen vullen met hits. De setlist was perfect gemaakt en werkte naar de climax van de avond. Het moment dat de oh zo geliefde percussionist naar voren kwam en zijn nummer Broken man ten gehore bracht ging het helemaal los. Met als klapper zijn bekende Johnny to bad toen was het echt helemaal los en ging het dak er vanaf. Na een toegift wat begon met de debuut single Food for thought, Kingston town en I can't help was het dan echt afgelopen. Fantastisch concert en onwijs genoten.

Don Valley Stadium in Sheffield, UK on Sat, 20 Aug 1994

Saw the support acts up close. Went up in the stand facing the stage for UB40 as we'd seen them up close before (Finsbury Park). Absolutely amazing concert. Got a hat full of photos from that great day. UB memories!

I went to see UB40 here all those years ago it was a fantastic show I also remember chaka demus and the pliers on the same day.

Ottakringer Brauerei in Vienna, Austria on Fri, 21 Aug 2015

It was really nice, the mood was cool. It was not the best show But they still did a really good job!

Doncaster Racecourse in Doncaster, UK on Sat, 06 Jun 2015

Was brilliant

Chepstow Racecourse in Chepstow, UK on Sat, 30 May 2015

Left after ten mins as we couldnt hear a thing, went up to watch on big screen but no sound.fighting, drunks and drug taking. Total waste of our money, shame as i love UB40

William Aston Hall in Wrexham, UK on Sat, 23 May 2015

I agree that the sound quality wasn't great and the lack of speakers up in the balcony seating area meant that when members of the band spoke in-between songs, you couldn't understand or hear a word they were saying, however the concert itself was fantastic. Glyndwr as a venue offers a very intimate and warm feel to any show or concert which I don't think can be achieved in a big arena. The atmosphere was fantastic, and you could certainly pick up that the crowd were enjoying themselves. I agree that some of the song choices were a little bit disappointing, and would have liked to have heard more of their greatest hits, as opposed to covers from other artists.

Poor sound quality. One if my most disappointing UB40 concerts

Blackpool Opera House in Blackpool, UK on Fri, 22 May 2015

very happy great night

Ventnor Winter Garden Theatre in Ventnor, UK on Tue, 19 May 2015

Amazing night so close and personal

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Rated concerts view all.

• Don Valley Stadium in Sheffield, UK Sat, 20 Aug 1994 100% from 2 ratings
• 013 in Tilburg, Netherlands Tue, 11 Nov 2014 100% from 2 ratings
• Rotterdam Ahoy in Rotterdam, Netherlands Fri, 01 Dec 2023 100% from 1 rating
• Watford Colosseum in Watford, UK Sat, 16 May 2015 100% from 1 rating
• Perth Concert Hall in Perth, UK Mon, 04 May 2015 100% from 1 rating
• Gaumont in Southampton, UK Thu, 16 Oct 1980 100% from 1 rating
• St David's Hall in Cardiff, UK Wed, 15 Apr 2015 100% from 1 rating
• Manchester Academy in Manchester, UK Sun, 21 Dec 2014 100% from 1 rating
• City Hall in Salisbury, UK Sun, 23 Nov 2014 100% from 1 rating
• Plymouth Pavilions in Plymouth, UK Mon, 10 Nov 2014 90% from 2 ratings

Ratings View all

• one of the best: 11 37%
• fantastic: 6 20%
• great: 6 20%
• disappointing: 0 0%
• should've stayed at home: 6 20%

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Ub40 2024 tour dates view all, ub40 tour history.

UB40 is a group founded 46 years ago in 1978 in Birmingham, UK.

Based on our research data, it appears, that the first UB40 concert happened 45 years ago on Fri, 06 Jul 1979 in New Inn, Balsall Heath - Moseley, UK and that the last UB40 concert was 4 months ago on Fri, 01 Dec 2023 in Rotterdam Ahoy - Rotterdam, Netherlands.

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UB40 Concert - House of Blues Orlando

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After traveling all day, we needed a place to eat and decided on a whim to go to House of Blues... read more

Great night out first time we sat in the garden listening to great music and eating the bbq and... read more

UB40 Concert

April 2nd 2009 Orlando listings, reviews & Florida guide. Where do I start? my usual complimentary tickets drop through the door, I open the envelope and I have to say if I'm being honest, when I saw UB40, I thought "oh well it will be old guys slowly going through the motions and probably not really wanting to be there" but hey what the heck, I gotta write a review right? Well guys how wrong was I? First the place was packed and full of youngsters too, you could not get another person in there, well perhaps a few cardboard cut outs. This band blew me away and believe me, I see a lot of concerts a year. The band was just A. From start to finish, totally. I was surprised how many songs I recognized. The music was not watered down pretend, cliché reggae; something I am seeing a lot of lately, this was fresh with interesting twists too, at times it was dubby, mesmerizing and almost kind of cinematic orchestral at times, if this is NEW reggae; I LIKE IT. The two lead front singers were crystal clear and worked brilliantly together, to my amazement, two or it may even have been three other band members came to the front to sing songs. I was kinda expecting the drummer to come down and sing too. One of the hi lights for the audience was when the percussionist with tremendous ardour and verve took to the stage to sing. He basically set the place on fire. The brass section were really cool, some brass sections can look like string puppets, these guys had characters and at times were funny, in a good way. All in all it was one of the best concerts I have seen in years, I just wish it was the last of the season; it really is going to be hard to top this one. You can see why UB40 are seasoned pros and know their field of expertise, with songs to back it all up, from love to hard poliical. As I stood alone in the middle of the House of Blues at the end. I had a feelin of "did that really just happen?". They came, played this crazy, wild and brilliant concert then left, and I'm the one who feels beat. Good luck UB40 with the rest of the tour; like you're gonna need it right? Well my next outing is Jars Of Clay, what are the chances of another night like my last? I am not hopeful, but hey let's not write anyone off before we go. I mean who would do something silly like that eh?

Went for a Sunday Brunch expecting some good gospel music and a nice brunch. The music was way too loud and made the entire time unenjoyable. The food was mediocre and greasy. Would never do this again or recommend it toanyone.

Most unproffessional ticket office staff I have ever encountered. I was yelled at and ridiculued by the employee at the box office as well as the manager. I had a question about tickets and they were so rude to me. They were mocking me both manager and employee as I stood in front of the window. Laughing and staring at me. Don't go here if you expect to be treated fairly b/c this business does not know how to do that. They have no respect for their customers, all they want is your money. Worst customer service experience of my life.

Recently popped in to the HOB in Orlando after seeing La Nouba. I have eaten at several HOB around the country and this one is just OK compared to the others. It might have something to do with the fact that I came so late at night(after 11pm) but it wasn't terrible. The one plus was that there was live music playing and the atmosphere is always cool. I would recommend anyone going to the West Side at Downtown Disney pop in even if it is just for a drink to see the bar.

I visted the Disney area for a week in March of 2006. We were a party of 3, all in our 20's. One night we wanted to go to a place where we could eat and listen to live music and ended up at the House of Blues. I have been to this area many times but have never been here before and was pleasantly surprised. We only ordered drinks and appetizers but they were all good. The drinks are a bit expensive but that is to be expected. The music and the atmosphere are both great. I don't know if there is live music every night but there was music both outside and inside the restaurant on the night that we were there. The only downside is that it is very loud inside when the music is playing. If you are with a group that likes to chat over their meal then this is not the place for you because you can barely hear each other talk while the music plays. I would definitely visit the House of Blues again for both food and music.

• Signing Off (UK Graduate) 1980  (Virgin) 1994 
• Present Arms (UK DEP International) 1981  (DEP International/Virgin) 1992 
• Present Arms in Dub (UK DEP International) 1981  (DEP International/Virgin) 1992 
• The Singles Album (UK Graduate) 1982 
• UB44 (UK DEP International) 1982 
• 1980-83 (A&M) 1983 
• Labour of Love (A&M) 1983 
• Live (UK DEP International) 1983  (Virgin) 1994 
• Geffery Morgan (A&M) 1984 
• Baggariddim (UK DEP International) 1985 
• Little Baggariddim EP (A&M) 1985 
• The UB40 File (UK Graduate) 1985 
• Rat in the Kitchen (DEP International/Virgin/A&M) 1986 
• The Best of UB40 Volume One (UK DEP International) 1987  (Virgin) 1995 
• UB40 CCCP — Live in Moscow (A&M) 1987 
• UB40 (DEP International/A&M) 1988 
• Labour of Love II (Virgin) 1989 
• Promises and Lies (DEP International/Virgin) 1993 
• Best of UB40 Volume Two (Virgin) 1995 
• Guns in the Ghetto (Virgin) 1997 
• Labour of Love III (Virgin) 1998 
• UB40 Present the Dancehall Album (UK DEP International) 1998 
• The Very Best of UB40 1980-2000 (Virgin) 2000 
• Cover Up (UK DEP International) 2001 
• Who You Fighting For? (DEP International / Rhino) 2006 
• Ali Campbell
• Big Love (Kuff/Virgin) 1995 

It is a testament either to reggae’s amazing elasticity, the sunny music’s universal appeal or the efficacy of its modern pop co-option that UB40, a racially integrated octet from Birmingham, England, would — in the wake of Bob Marley — become reggae’s longest-running hit machine. Not to put too fine a point on it, Marley lived only eight years after making the landmark Catch a Fire album; UB40 is already in its third decade of successful employment.

Significantly, UB40 (the official name for a British unemployment form) has built its empire on laid-back covers of soul and pop classics and gentle love songs, not religion and revolution; there isn’t a single item in the UB40 archive with the international social significance of “Redemption Song” or “Get Up Stand Up.” Ultimately, UB40 is loyal not to a culture but to a beat. Unlike most pop behemoths who arrive through some exotic entrance way, UB40 has never rethought its basic approach of quietly percolating grooves garnished with sultry horn lines and centered on Campbell’s cool crooning (with harmonies from his guitar-playing brother Robin). Indicative of an abiding conservatism that has made no effort to follow the undertow of dancehall, the band’s formula is mighty steady: recent albums sound enough like early ones that it would be impossible to guess their order of release.

At the outset, UB40’s biggest problem was its weak songwriting, which seemed to rise to the occasion only for singles; as a result, The Singles Album is an especially fine LP, more than half of which had already appeared on Signing Off . (For the quantity-minded, the latter does include a bonus disc with another 21 minutes of music.) Present Arms is notable for more prominent use of toasting (continued on UB44 ) and little else, aside from two solid singles. Present Arms in Dub , though, attempts an alternative to the usual dub style, drastically changing the music to the point where some songs are hardly recognizable. The UB40 File is a repackage of Signing Off with a second disc consisting of all the singles the band cut that year. (It doesn’t require a detective to realize that it merely reissues — and not for the first time — everything on their original label.)

UB44 , in addition to minor alterations (more Latin percussion, sparingly applied gurgling synth), displays wider lyrical range and increased verbal acuity, but the only truly striking tune is, naturally, a single (“So Here I Am”). The first live album (issued in America more than a decade later) was recorded on tour in Ireland in 1982 and features such tunes as “Food for Thought” and “One in Ten.”

The 1980-83 compilation selects tracks from UB44 , Present Arms and early singles — not bad, but not the introduction America wanted to hear. What finally did the trick was a novelty of sorts, one that sidestepped the band’s material shortcomings. Labour of Love is an LP of cover versions, drawing on reggae (and previously reggaefied) hits from a number of diverse authors, including Neil Diamond (“Red Red Wine”), Jimmy Cliff (“Many Rivers to Cross”) and Delroy Wilson (“Johnny Too Bad”). The resultant variety and melodic quality make the album easily and enduringly enjoyable, a rich mine of superbly played familiarity.

The entirely new original material of Geffery Morgan shows a vastly more creative UB40 at work. Inventive production, intriguing rock rhythms, powerful and memorable songwriting and new outlooks all combine to make it a great record that remains rooted in reggae but is much more diverse than the form generally allows. “Riddle Me” and “If It Happens Again” are ace reggae/rock hybrids; “Nkomo a Go Go,” with a propulsive dance-rock beat and wailing saxophone, shows the full range of UB40’s development. A very impressive step forward from a band who already know the formula for success.

Baggariddim consists of three new recordings (the catchy “Don’t Break My Heart,” “Mi Spliff” and a charmingly reggaefied “I Got You Babe” sung with Chrissie Hynde) on an EP plus a seven-song album of dub mixes from Labour of Love and Geffery Morgan . Little Baggariddim has the three new items: “One in Ten,” “Hip Hop Lyrical Robot” and “I Got You Babe” in dub.

Rat in the Kitchen is another accomplished collection of originals that makes clear the maturity of UB40’s songwriting. Bopping from start to finish with infectious warmth and top-notch musicianship, the album addresses employment and poverty; “Sing Our Own Song” vaguely discusses apartheid but it’s clear UB40 isn’t deeply committed to commitment on its records.

Live in Moscow , a single disc recorded during a historic 1986 Russian tour, draws from various periods in the band’s career and includes “If It Happens Again,” “Don’t Break My Heart,” “Cherry Oh Baby,” “Johnny Too Bad” and “Please Don’t Make Me Cry.” The performances are lively, but thin, barely adequate sound makes it more a milestone in UB40’s history than an important contribution to it. In its original issue, The Best of UB40 Volume One compiles fourteen British hits (eighteen on CD); the belated American release is abridged.

In November 1987, UB40 bassist Earl Falconer drove his car into a Birmingham factory wall, killing his brother Ray (“Pablo”), the band’s co-producer. Although he was eventually sentenced to prison for causing a death by reckless driving, he was back in the group for the recording of UB40 , a lightweight, restrained new album. “Come Out to Play,” “Breakfast in Bed” (another guest vocal by Hynde), the solemn “I Would Do for You” and “Matter of Time” make the most of catchy pop choruses, leaving the remaining material to just throb along pleasantly.

Labour of Love II assembles another unassailable collection of reggae-ready songs that either came from or had previously found their way to Jamaica. Although II is less convincing than the first covers album, several tunes — Al Green’s “Here I Am (Come and Take Me)” and Smokey Robinson’s “The Way You Do the Things You Do” (originally a hit for the Temptations) — are able to locate that magical blend of song and style.

Following a lengthy studio layoff, UB40 made another album of originals, the lyrically downcast — but sounding none the worse for wear — Promises and Lies . For all the irresistible warm-bath appeal of the smooth grooves, no one should sing a line like “It’s a long, black night, good people, descended on our land” with such glowing positive spirit. The unmovable Campbell delivers all of the lyrics — from the grim realities of “C’est la Vie” to the title track’s deep disillusion (“All your promises were lies”) to the racial oppression venom of “Sorry” (“You must prove it sign the cheque without delay / Most humbly yours, four hundred years back pay”) — in exactly the same tone he’s always used. The emotional soft-soap is disconcerting if not dishonest, leaving the album easy to hear but hard to take seriously. (Actually, the only number that receives a stirring reading is “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” the Elvis Presley oldie recorded for the soundtrack of Sliver .) UB40 breaks the mold here with samples (in “It’s a Long Long Way”) and Astro’s occasional toasts: he waxes surprisingly sexy on “Bring Me Your Cup” and really wrecks shit in “Sorry.” Furthermore, Falconer spells Campbell on the electronics- powered “Reggae Music,” giving a warmhearted salute to the band in a husky voice.

In its American edition, at least, the band’s second greatest-hits compilation is nearly useless, drawing all but three of its tracks from Labour of Love II and Promises and Lies .

Campbell’s solo album marks the first significant break in the group’s close-knit insularity since Falconer’s imprisonment; still, everyone in UB40 makes some contribution. Although the polished soul of Big Love doesn’t break for any border, the album does give Campbell the freedom to work with some new people, slip out — just briefly — from reggae’s rhythmic yoke, do without live drumming, promote hemp farming (I said, “promote hemp farming”) and sing a broader range of material. He covers Syreeta Wright, Jimmy Cliff’s “Let Your Yeah Be Yeah” and preserves the father/daughter tradition of Frank and Nancy Sinatra’s “Somethin’ Stupid” with his own progeny. For all that, Campbell doesn’t maintain his usual air of sophisticated reserve. Left to explore his ambitions, he steps outside his strengths; the anti-racist fable “Talking Blackbird” and the tape collage PSA announcement “Stop the Guns” are witlessly obvious, and score no points beyond stating their messages.

• Type O Negative
• Ugly Kid Joe

UB40 Announces UB45 National U.S. 2023 Tour Celebrating 45 Years Of The Band's Iconic Pop-Reggae Music Kicking Off On July 4

UB40 will also be releasing a new album this summer titled UB45, with new songs and reworked classics.

In celebration of four-time Grammy nominated UB40's 45th Anniversary, the band announces their upcoming "UB45" U.S. summer tour, kicking off on Independence Day, July 4, in Camden, New Jersey.

The legendary reggae-pop band will bring fans special live performances of their worldwide hit singles to the stage with "Red Red Wine," "Food For Thought," "(I Can't Help) Falling In Love With You," and many more. UB40 will also be releasing a new album this summer titled UB45, with new songs and reworked classics (release date TBA). Check local listings for UB40 shows with special guests including Maxi Priest, Inner Circle, Third World and Big Mountain.

With additional dates being added, the national tour will include stops coast-to-coast in Westbury, New York at The Space on July 6 and in Los Angeles, California at the Microsoft Theater on July 21; in addition to Boston, Nashville, Seattle, Portland, Las Vegas, and more. Tickets are available at UB40.GLOBAL.

Says guitarist/vocalist Robin Campbell, "We love playing the U.S., and celebrating our 45th year and having a new album makes our return even more exciting."

Adds lead singer, Matt Doyle, "Touring the States last year was an absolute dream come true for me, and now I just can't wait to get back out there. Most of all I can't wait for the U.S fans to hear some of our new tunes! I think they're going to love UB45!"

With more than 100 million albums sold worldwide, UB40 members Jimmy Brown (drums), Robin Campbell (guitar/vocals), Earl Falconer (bass/vocals), Norman Lamont Hassan (percussion/vocals), Martin Meredith (keyboards/WX7/saxophone), Tony Mullings (keyboards), Laurence Parry (trumpet/flugal/trombone), Ian Thompson (saxophone) - and lead vocalist Matt Doyle - are an English reggae and pop multi-cultural band originally formed in Birmingham, England. With more than 50 singles in the U.K. Singles Chart, the group has been established since 1978.

UB40's lead singer, Matt Doyle, joined the band in 2021, taking over for a retired Duncan Campbell after Doyle's group, KIOKO, opened for UB40 at The Royal Albert Hall in 2018 -- and then supported them on UB40's subsequent UK tour and European tours.

Doyle's lead vocals are featured on the track "You Don't Call Anymore" from from UB40's collaboration album BIGGA BAGGARIDDIM, released in 2021; and last summer's "Champion" , the first single from the forthcoming UB45 album and official song of the 2022 Commonwealth Games, which also featured Gilly G and Dapz on the Map, two emcees also from Birmingham.

Originating as group of young friends from Birmingham with working-class origins to creating the world's most successful reggae band, UB40 has gone on to becoming four-time Grammy nominees for "Best Reggae Album," selling millions of records, and spending a combined 11 plus years on the UK album charts with more than 50 UK hit singles including "(I Can't Help) Falling In Love With You," "Red Red Wine," "I Got You Babe (Ft. Chrissie Hynde)," and many more. UB40 is one of the most successful British groups of all time. For more information visit: https://ub40.global/ .

UB40 is represented in the USA and South America by Jeff Epstein and Paul Gaudio of Universal Attractions Agency (UAA.)

UB45 TOUR DATES ARE AS FOLLOWS:

7/4/23 Wiggins Waterfront Park Camden, NJ

7/6/23 The Space Westbury, NY

7/7/23 Chevalier Theatre Medford, MA

7/9/23 Wolftrap Foundation for the Performing Arts Vienna, VA

7/11/23 Schermerhorn Nashville Nashville, TN

7/13/23 The Amphitheater at Phillip S. Miller Park Castle Rock, CO

7/15/23 Marymoor Park Seattle, WA

7/16/23 Bossanova Ballroom Portland, OR

7/17/23 Brittfest Jacksonville, OR

7/20/23 Mountain Winery Saratoga, CA

7/21/23 The Microsoft Theater Los Angeles, CA

7/22/23 Palm Pool Las Vegas, NV

7/23/23 Saroyan Theatre Fresno, CA

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The Who announce 2023 orchestral tour – with UB40 at regional shows

The nine-date run of shows is The Who's first tour for six years

The Who have announced a 2023 UK tour where they will be accompanied by an orchestra on each date.

• READ MORE: Roger Daltrey tells us about plans to stream unseen TCT gigs from The Cure, Muse, Pulp and more

The tour is the ’60s legends’ first tour for six years and will kick off on July 6 in Hull, after which they will play a mixture of indoor and outdoor shows across the country before signing off in Brighton on July 23. The nine-date run of shows will see the band return to Edinburgh for the first time in over 40 years, while they will also perform in Derby for the first time since 1966.

Sections of the show will be devoted to the group’s classic albums ‘Tommy’ and ‘Quadrophenia’, while they will also be playing songs from their most recent album, 2019’s ‘WHO’, which was their first studio album for 13 years.

UB40 featuring Ali Campbell will be joining them on all shows apart from Edinburgh and London.

“Having not toured the UK for six years, it’s great that at this time of our careers we have the chance to go to places that are not on the usual touring map – Edinburgh Castle and Derby, as well as the other cities across the country that we haven’t been to for decades, will make this very special for me,” said singer Roger Daltrey. “This opportunity will give our UK Who fans the chance to hear our current show, which, with the addition of an orchestra, takes our music to new heights.”

Pete Townshend added: “Roger initially christened this tour with an orchestra ‘Moving On!’ I love it. It is what both of us want to do. Move on, with new music, classic Who music, all performed in new and exciting ways. Taking risks, nothing to lose. I’m really looking forward to bringing this show to the UK.”

Tickets will go on general sale on Friday, February 3, at 10am. The band has encouraged fans to donate £1 when they buy their ticket to Teenage Cancer Trust, which they have longtime patrons of. You can see the full list of dates below and buy your tickets here .

JULY 6 – Hull, Sewell Group Craven Park 8 – Edinburgh, Edinburgh Castle 9 – Edinburgh, Edinburgh Castle 12 – London, The O2  14 – Derby, Incora County Ground 16 – Bristol, Badminton Estate  19 – Durham, Seat Unique Riverside 21 – St Helens, Totally Wicked Stadium 23 – Brighton, 1st Central Cricket Ground

The Who toured the US with an orchestra at the tail end of last year. At one show in Long Island, they surprised fans by playing ‘Young Man’s Blues’ , which they have only ever played six times in the last 40 years.

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UB40 Announces “UB45” National U.S. 2023 Tour Celebrating 45 Years

In celebration of UB40’s 45th Anniversary , the band announces their upcoming “UB45” U.S. summer tour, kicking off on Independence Day, July 4, in Camden, New Jersey. The legendary reggae-pop band will bring fans special live performances of their worldwide hit singles to the stage with “Red Red Wine,” “Food For Thought,” “(I Can’t Help) Falling In Love With You,” and many more. UB40 will also be releasing a new album this summer titled UB45 , with new songs and reworked classics (release date TBA). Check local listings for UB40 shows with special guests including Maxi Priest, Inner Circle, Third World and Big Mountain .

With additional dates being added, the national tour will include stops coast-to-coast in Westbury, New York at The Space on July 6 and in Los Angeles, California at the Microsoft Theater on July 21; in addition to Boston, Nashville, Seattle, Portland, Las Vegas, and more. Tickets are available at ub40.global/tour/ .

Says guitarist/vocalist Robin Campbell, “We love playing the U.S., and celebrating our 45th year and having a new album makes our return even more exciting.”

Adds lead singer, Matt Doyle, “Touring the States last year was an absolute dream come true for me, and now I just can’t wait to get back out there. Most of all I can’t wait for the U.S fans to hear some of our new tunes! I think they’re going to love UB45!”

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