UB40’s Duncan Campbell retires from band following health scare
He suffered a stroke in August last year
Last updated 28th Jun 2021
UB40 star Duncan Campbell has revealed he is stepping down from the band, and music, following a seizure earlier in June.
The singer suffered a stroke in August 2020 and has spent the last 10 months recovering, in preparation for the band’s upcoming tour.
The reggae favourites formed in Birmingham in the late 1970s and went on to have hits with songs including ‘Red Red Wine’ and ‘Kingston Town’.
UB40 shared a statement on their social media channels today (Monday 28th June) to confirm the news and that they would be announcing a new singer soon.
63-year-old Duncan said: “I am very grateful, and would like to express my sincere thanks to the fans for all their support during this time and indeed throughout my time with UB40.
‘The band have my full support going forward and, of course, my very best wishes for the future with their new singer.”
Duncan’s brother and bandmate Robin Campbell spoke on behalf of the band in a statement. He said: “We’ve been rehearsing with every intention of Duncan’s return to performing, but sadly, after suffering further illness he has made the decision to retire from music in order to concentrate fully on his recovery.
“While we are deeply saddened, we completely understand and fully support his decision. As far as touring goes, we are ready to hit the road for our upcoming summer shows and will be announcing our new front man imminently.”
UB40’s line-up remained unchanged for 29 years until January 2008, when Duncan replaced his younger brother Ali as lead singer of the group, after he left following a disagreement about management.
The chart-toppers are due to go on tour across the UK, Europe and Australia later this year and into 2022.
Take a look at these other 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'.
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