UB40 will hit Australian shores this week, unleashing a formidable live set containing material from the past four decades.
In remaining true to the authentic reggae spirit that kick-started his music career in the late ’70s, lead singer Ali Campbell will bring the band’s legendary catalogue back to life, including hits like “Red Red Wine”, “I Got You Babe”, and “Kingston Town”.
Backed by a powerhouse nine-piece touring ensemble and fresh off major stages worldwide, Campbell’s band is widely regarded as the “most authentic realisation” of UB40’s original goal – advancing reggae in all its guises. Their live show is built around warmth, groove, and connection, with arrangements that honour their roots while embracing the communal energy that has long defined their performances.
Few acts have embedded themselves as deeply into live music culture as UB40, whose blend of politically conscious roots and chart-topping success helped define an era, and continues to resonate across generations. And Campbell’s instantly recognisable voice, steeped with warmth and charisma, beautifully carries the weight of that legacy.
Formed in 1979, the band have impressively scored 50 singles in the UK charts throughout their expansive career, not to mention enormous success and acclaim on a global scale – with more than 70 million records sold worldwide – including right here in Australia. Their undeniable impact truly went on to reshape how reggae was heard and understood globally.
In Australia, they scored two No. 1 singles with “I Got You Babe” in 1985, and “(I Can’t Help) Falling in Love With You” in 1993. Their signature songr, “Red Red Wine” peaked at No. 2, while “Kingston Town” reached the top 20 following its early ’90s reissue.
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That success extended to albums, too, with compilations such as The Best of UB40 Vol. I achieving platinum certification in Australia.
Clearly they have long felt at home in Australia, with a connection even Campbell himself described as “a special one,” so much so, he “can’t wait to be back Down Under once again.”
They’ll be kicking off their 2026 Australian tour at Perth’s Kings Park & Botanic Garden on Sunday, January 18th, before shows in Melbourne, Sydney, Newcastle, and the Gold Coast, as well as a new show just added in Brisbane. Tickets remain for some shows – see here for details.
UB40 Featuring Ali Campbell 2026 Australian Tour
Sunday, January 18th (NEW SHOW)
Kings Park & Botanic Garden, Perth WA
Wednesday, January 21st
Palais Theatre, Melbourne VIC
Thursday, January 22nd (SOLD OUT)
State Theatre, Sydney NSW
Saturday, January 24th (SOLD OUT)
Civic Theatre, Newcastle NSW
Sunday, January 25th (SOLD OUT)
The Star Theatre, Gold Coast QLD
Monday, January 26th (NEW SHOW)
Fortitude Music Hall, Brisbane QLD
