UB40 Replace Singer With Spoon-Playing Younger Brother

Ali Campbell, whose 30-year tenure with UB40 ended last January because of financial quarrels, will be replaced by his estranged brother Duncan on the band’s new tour. What is this, the Mafia? Maxi Priest, who has had his own history of reggae covers of classic schmaltz, will also be performing with the band. Duncan is a former professional spoon player, and evidently nothing else he’s ever done in his life is as noteworthy as that.

He said he asked for Ali’s blessing before stepping in, but stressed they were not otherwise on speaking terms.

Duncan said: “I told him if he objected strongly, I wouldn’t do it. But I haven’t spoken to him since” Duncan added. “The wounds are fresh.”

Ali replied that he was “disappointed but didn’t object”, according to Robin.

Robin Campbell said : “He left to pursue a solo career for the financial benefits that that brings. That’s what he told me.”

He went onto say that the brothers’ relations with Ali would “take a lot of healing”.

“He’s my kid brother and I felt dumped, as did every other member of the band. We felt deeply hurt and those things take time to heal.”

I was tempted to finally check out some original UB40 after reading this–I’ve heard it’s good!–but instead I went straight to the Sliver soundtrack.

What a delightful romp.

UB40 announce singer replacement [NME] Can’t help falling in love – UB40 [Youtube]