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Interview with UB40

By Ruth Cooper

24 Feb 2014

The three founding members of UB40: Astro, Mickey Virtue and Ali Campbell have reunited amongst a fair amount of controversy and, to put it lightly, a fair amount of grumbling from their previous band mates (who are still performing under the same name); however, musicians need to survive and albums and tours made, so this trio and version of the band is back in the game - currently touring and working on a new album. They touch down in SA in April this year. We emailed lead singer Ali Campbell a few questions to find out more.

This is your third time playing in SA. What can fans expect this time round?
Ali Campbell: Our fans can expect a set list of hit songs they will all know, with maybe a few surprises thrown in.

Do you know who your support band(s) will be yet?

We know that they are high in demand in South Africa but we cannot say anything yet. Keep a lookout online and listen to the radio to hear who it will be.

Why the decision to reform with only some of the members?

"UB40 reunited" has myself, Astro and Mickey V. Fantastic drum and bass and a wicked brass section, 11 performers on stage. In my opinion, the hottest reggae band currently on the road!

There seems to be a fair amount of bad blood between this new formation and previous band mates, what are your feelings about this?

The old band will never reform.

Will the entire band ever reform?

Musically, it would be going backwards.

How is the new album going so far? What can fans expect?

The new album is completed. It's 100% reggae. Astro features on several tracks, the band are playing live and it's the best production I've done to date! I love it and I believe our fans will love it too.

When do you expect it to be released?

Released soon!

Any ideas for the title yet?

Its working title has been "Rhythm Method", but that may change!

What have been some of the highlights of your 30-year lifespan?

One big highlight was eventually coming to South Africa (after having upheld the cultural boycott) and playing to over 80 000 people in Johannesburg.

Any plans to do some sightseeing while in South Africa?

Since first coming to South Africa I've been on safari three times, "rode the rainbows" in a helicopter at Victoria Falls, sailed the Zambezi , taken the Blue Train around the Cape and thoroughly explored SA.

What's next for UB40 after the tour and album?

More tours, more music.

UB40 plays on Friday, 4 April at the Val de Vie Winelands Lifestyle Estate in Paarl (gates open at 3.30pm) and in Joburg, on Saturday, 5 April, 2014, at Emmarentia Dam (gates open at 11am). Tickets are on sale from R395 at Webtickets: Cape Town | Johanesburg

Follow UB40 SA Tour on Facebook for announcements of the South African support line-up and other relevant information.