UB40 is an English reggae group hailing from Birmingham, England. The band takes its name from a form issued by the U.K. government in the ’70s, Unemployment Benefit, Form 40. The group began as a bunch of friends in Birmingham. As Birmingham’s population was (and still is) comprised of immigrants from a diverse range of former British colonies, UB40 came to include members who had roots all over the world, from Jamaica to Yemen. Before we continue, we want you to get the best tickets to see UB40. You don’t want to miss the show and in fact, please make sure you get the best seats available to have even a better time.
The lineup which solidified in their first year, and would remain for 29 years, included Ali Campbell (vocals and guitar), Jimmy Brown (drums), and Robin Campbell (guitar and vocals). Earl Falconer (bass guitar), Norman Hassan (percussion, trombone, and vocals), Brian Travers (saxophone), Duncan Campbell (vocals), Mickey Virtue (keyboard), and Astro (percussion, trumpet, and vocals). Ali Campbell, Mickey Virtue, and Astro have left the band and been replaced.
As the eighties rolled on, UB40’s music shot up the charts. The group has had over 50 singles make the charts in the UK. They have also been nominated to receive the Grammy for Best Reggae Album four times. Labour of Love (1983) and Promises and Lies (1993), the band’s two most popular albums, both reached number one on the UK charts. UB40’s addition of analog synthesizers, bluesy Telecasters, and saxophone to the soothing sounds of reggae also caught on in the United States. The hit singles “Red Red Wine” and “Can’t Help Falling in Love” both climbed to number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
For decades now UB40 has been successfully touring the world. Their shows are highlighted by the covers which have made them famous and long intervals of jamming. A unique element to UB-40’s live act compared to other reggae acts is the predominance of the horn section, namely Brian Travers on saxophone. UB40 diehards have become accustomed to Travers being the first member of the group on and the last one off the stage. The band has released multiple live albums so fans can get a sense of the group in concert. These include the 1983 album UB40 Live and the 1987 release UB40 CCCP: Live in Moscow.
Buy Tickets to See UB40 Live in Concert
The Hare & Hounds Pub in King’s Heath, Birmingham served as the venue for UB40’s live debut in 1979. Upon receiving the UK’s Heritage Award in 2011, the band installed a commemorative plaque in the pub. Since their days at The Hare & Hounds, the group has played across the world in many prestigious venues. UB40 has headlined the Reggae Sunsplash festival in Jamaica. They also performed at the Rock AM Ring festival in Nürburgring, Germany in 1987. The band was instrumental in spreading reggae to places like Russia and South America as a result of their tours to these places. Tickets for UB40 are available, so act now before you miss out.
More About UB40
In 2008 the group underwent some controversy when Ali Campbell left the band; he was followed by Mickey Virtue. When Astro left the group in 2013 he went to join Ali Campbell and Mickey Virtue, who began playing under their old banner of UB40. The members of the band who stuck together were still using the band’s name, and unfortunately, legal action followed suit.
As their biggest hits have been mostly covers, UB40 has collaborated with a long list of artists over the years. These performers include Pato Banton, Madness, Bitty McLean, Chrissie Hynde, Maxi Priest, Robert Palmer, and many others. During some li, ve shows the band has also teamed up with full orchestras. UB40’s music has also been adopted by Hollywood. the 1993 Sharon Stone film, Silver, utilized “Can’t Help Falling in Love” as the title track.
Witness UB40 Live
UB40 has been around a long time and you have a chance to see them live when they come to a venue near you. This is the best time to buy UB40 tickets and you should also consider the best seats in the building to really make your event special. If you have any questions please let us know.
