Reggae survivors UB40

28-06-2008 08:15

After 30 years, 70 million singles and albums sold and 41 UK top 40 singles, UB40 were rocked this year by the departure of frontman and founder member Ali Campbell.Despite reports Ali wanted to pursue a solo career, he issued a statement slamming the band's management, citing them as the reason he left. His statement read: "Contrary to some of the misleading, false information and accusations that have been circulating in recent months, the reason for my forthcoming departure from the band is not, as has been stated, due to my wanting to pursue a solo career. The reason for me leaving the band is that management difficulties, which have been ongoing for almost 5 years, had become intolerable. I have been deeply unhappy with administrative practices and with many decisions that have been made in recent years and I have an ongoing investigation into the handling of my business affairs in relation to UB40. Suffice to say I felt I had no other option but to resign from my band."The acrimonious departure of the frontman caused not only tensions in the reggae outfit but also a family rift - Ali was replaced as singer by his brother, former professional spoons player Duncan. Duncan revealed at the time of his appointment that: "I told him if he objected strongly, I wouldn't do it. But I haven't spoken to him since. The wounds are fresh."Third brother - and UB40 guitarist - Robin said Ali was "disappointed but didn't object" to the appointment, yet five months on the siblings are still not speaking.Robin sighed: "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. Obviously things are difficult, but he's my baby brother so it doesn't stop me loving him. I wish him all the very best. I'm just still disappointed and sad about the way it's happened, but life goes on and the band goes on."Ali's exit was followed by that of keyboard player Michael Virtue two months later, who also cited financial and business reasons. None the less, the band refused to give into the double blow and, having recruited Duncan, they have also added reggae star Maxi Priest to their touring line-up and found a new keyboard player in Tony Mullins.