I don’t remember which happened first…hearing UB40 or seeing their music video(s). Their version of the song “Red Red Wine” was and still is a big hit and seriously, there are so many albums to draw from to enjoy. Did you know the music selections on their “Labor of Love” cover series were their way of paying tribute to their musical heroes and influences as well as introduce folks to the original music makers…
One of my personal favorite albums is “Geoffrey Morgan” and “Promises and Lies”. Their debut, “Signing Off”, is a remarkable release in retrospect as they were in their late teens…maybe in their twenties when they went into the recording studio…and every song holds up. It sounds even better understanding where they started and where they each are today (in 2025).
This conversation was brief and I’m grateful for the chance to hear Ali Campbell reminisce about Sly & Robbie’s impact in his life, look back at his own early influences alongside reggae music, and for him to continue to champion for the world to embrace reggae and dub music. There will always be a new fan of the genre and it’s certainly a feel-great groove 🙂
Many thanks to Ali Campbell of UB40 featuring Ali Campbell for the talk story! Also TMR Events and Jay Park \m/
(below: photo gallery from Ub40 featuring Ali Campbell at the Blaisdell Arena on February 14, 2025. See our talk story + photo gallery with opening act Anuhea here)
