Ali Campbell confirms UB40 tour will go ahead in honour of Astro
Astro passed away last year
Last updated 11th May 2022
Founding member of UB40 Ali Campbell has now confirmed his upcoming tour UB40 featuring Ali Campbell will go ahead in honour of his bandmate Astro, who passed away last year.
In a statement, Ali said: "I can’t wait to get back on stage and see all our wonderful fans. It’s going to be incredibly difficult without Astro by my side. Remembering Astro, let the music play on. Big love, Ali."
The band also shared a couple of photos to their social media accounts saying: 'Getting ready to do it all again, It will never be the same but we’re going to do you proud ❤️.'
Fans of the band have been looking forward to their tour for a while now, as it was originally due to take place last year, but was postponed due to the Coronavirus Pandemic.
Then, following the death of Astro after a short illness, there was some question over whether the tour would go ahead. However, a couple of weeks ago, Ali shared a video of himself explaining how he believed Astro would want the tour to take place, saying it will start on 25th February at the O2 in London.
UB40 are known for their hits 'Red Red Wine', and 'Can't Help Falling In Love', however their line-up has changed throughout the years. Both Ali Campbell and Astro were founding members of the original group, but Ali left the group in 2008, with Astro leaving in 2013. The pair then reunited with Mickey Virtue as UB40 featuring Ali, Astro, and Mickey in 2014 before Mickey left in 2018, leaving the band as UB40 featuring Ali Campbell and Astro.
Duncan replaced his younger brother Ali as lead singer of the group in 2008.
Take a look at these bands which are made up of siblings:
Oasis
Noel and Liam Gallagher formed Oasis in Manchester in 1991 and went on to worldwide stardom with massive hits and anthems including: 'Don't Look Back In Anger' and 'Supersonic'. Famously, the brothers didn't get on well and split in 2009. We hope they reunite one day!
Bee Gees
The Bee Gees formed in 1958, featuring brothers Barry, Robin, and Maurice Gibb. With their catchy tunes, they were incredibly prominent in the 70s disco era and their songs continue to fill dancefloors today. Sadly, Maurice passed away in 2003 and brother Robin died in 2012.
We do however have a film about the trio to look forward to as a biopic about their lives is in the making!
Sister Sledge
Formed in 1971 and hailing from Philadelphia, Sister Sledge (Debbie, Joni, Kim, and Kathy Sledge) also enjoyed incredible success during the Disco era. Their album 'We Are Family', co-produced by Nile Rodgers the mastermind behind Chic, included hits like 'He's The Greatest Dancer' and 'Lost In Music'.
Spandau Ballet
Spandau Ballet, including brothers Martin and Gary Kemp, were formed in London in 1979. The band went on to top the charts with hits like 'True' and 'Gold'. They also performed at Live Aid in 1985 alongside David Bowie, Queen and Elton John.
Dire Straits
One of the world's best-selling music artists, Dire Straights were formed in London in 1977 by Mark Knopfler and David Knopfler. Their album 'Brothers in Arms' was the first album to sell a million copies on compact disc.
The Pointer Sisters
The Pointer Sisters (June, Bonnie, Ruth and Anita Pointer) were formed in California in the early 1970s and went on to produce hits like 'Jump (For My Love)' and 'I'm So Excited'. They have won a total of three Grammy Awards and have a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame!
Sadly, Ruth is the only surviving origial member of the group.
The Beach Boys
The Beach Boys' original lineup consisted of brothers Brian, Dennis, and Carl Wilson, their cousin Mike Love, and friend Al Jardine! Although they began as a garage band, they went on to solidify the pop genre and influence many future musicians with songs like 'Surfin USA' and 'Good Vibrations'.
The Jackson 5
The Jackson 5 was made up of Jackie, Tito, Marlon, Michael and Jermaine Jackson. In 1968, they were signed to now legendary label Motown Records and went on to achieve number one hits with tunes like 'I Want You Back' and 'ABC'.
The Nolan Sisters
Although they originally performed with their parents and brothers as The Singing Nolans, the Irish sisters (Maureen Nolan, Anne Nolan, Linda Nolan, Coleen Nolan, Bernie Nolan and Denise Nolan) took on the name of the The Nolan Sisters and went on to achieve huge success. Their song 'I'm In The Mood For Dancing' remains their biggest hit.
Earth, Wind & Fire
Founded by Maurice White, the group Earth, Wind & Fire also included brothers Verdine and Fred White. The band was known for their hit songs 'Shining Star', 'September' and 'Boogie Wonderland'.
Read more:
Our favourite groups with siblings 🎶
18 of your favourite music icons and their famous kids