Adam Sherwin, Media Correspondent
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The feud between UB40, the world’s biggest reggae band, took a further twist when it was announced that lead singer Ali Campbell would be replaced by a new member - his brother Duncan.
The Birmingham group, who topped the charts with Red Red Wine, have sold more than 70 million records over 30 years. But they have parted company with Ali Campbell over contested claims that the frontman, 49, wanted to pursue a solo career.
As one of Britain’s most successful musical exports, with a large international fanbase, the remaining members were determined to continue as a family concern.
Previously, Ali Campbell shared guitar and vocal duties with his brother Robin. But they no longer speak. At a London press conference the remaining members unveiled a third Campbell brother, Duncan, as their new vocalist.
Duncan Campbell will share vocal duties with fellow Birmingham reggae performer Maxi Priest at live concerts. Duncan sings seven songs on a new UB40 album which also features Ali’s final performances with the band.
Duncan said relations with his younger brother were “strained” at present. He said Ali had given him his blessing to take over as vocalist, but added this conversation was the only one they had had recently.
Robin Campbell, 53, said: “We bent over backwards to accommodate his (Ali’s) need to break out solo but in the end he just wanted to make more money.”
Ali Campbell said he wanted to investigate the financial management of the band’s affairs and believed his solo project, featuring Smokey Robinson and Mick Hucknall, could have helped sales of UB40’s new album, 24/7. There are four Campbell brothers, fathered by Scottish folk singer Ian Campbell.
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I am sorry to hear that Ali is leaving, but listen to the new album. I think it's great. Oh America is such a catchy tune, and the lyrics, well I don't think it will ever be realeased in America, but I wholeheartedly agree with every word. I am going to the Sussex Gig and can't wait.
Alison, Beds
Alison Stephenson, Dunstable, uk
Sorry if this offends but for me Ali is the voice of UB40 and without him for the last 28 years you would never have sustained the following! Nothing is worth listening to of UB40's unless Ali's beautiful voice is on it xx Going to see him in Brighton and wish him all the look in the world.x Tina
Tina, Burgess Hill, West Sussex
I have been a devoted follower of UB40 for years ( I'm almost as old as Ali ) I will still support them, but feel the " One True Voice " of UB40 will always be Ali's. No one one will ever be close to his raspy, , deep sexy tones, I will support Ali in whatever he does. I love him to bits.
Sandra Chapman, LISBURN, ANTRIM
Oh, who cares? UB40 are perennially over-rated. Rubbish reggae light. Whoever buys anything recorded, either individually or collectively, buy their members needs to develop some sort of appreciation of popular music.
Jon, Stoke,
looking forward to hearing his voice i think that UB40 will still be going strong in time to come but Ali i dont think he will do any good solo and i hope he realises that leaving 1 of the worlds biggest bands was a huge mistake
paul, Walsall, UK
This is the beginning of a new and exciting chapter for UB40. Their huge number of devoted fans across the globe will support them 100% and I for one can't wait to hear their new album.
Elise, London, UK
I think ub40 are great, even going solo still great. I went to the o6 and 07 concert in nottingham, they was just amazing. That i went in to labour that moment with all the excitment. My little girl sings all their songs now @2yrs old. so thanks for the fab music. Good luck 2 u all.Hopes its good
claire, nottingham, england
UB40 without Ali is like Led Zeppelin without Robert Plant - Good, but just not Zep
Phill, The Wirral, England
It will never work ub40 are finished! Ali campbell is mr ub40
he started them! and has the right to finish them! thanks for the last 30 years boys your gold stuff now
Alis the future
Big love!!!!!!!
chris, Bolton, uk