H-Metro
Maria Chiguvari
HARARE is buzzing as legendary British reggae and pop outfit UB40, featuring Ali Campbell, is expected to jet into town today.
They are returning to Zimbabwe for the first time in 41 years having performed here in 1982.
The UK reggae band is scheduled to arrive in the capital ahead of their show at Old Hararians Sports Club tomorrow.
The super group made its name with smash hits like Red Red Wine, Kingston Town and Homely Girl, which dominated global charts.
Some local artists, including DJ Chiwedaar, Mimmie Tarukwana, Josh Ansley and Sylent Nqo, are also set to perform.
The gates will open from 4.30pm.
Walter Wanyanya, of Ngoma Hosho Promotions, who are the event organisers, said this special show has been in the making for years now.
He said it was delayed by the Covid-19 pandemic.
“We are set and ready to welcome UB40, featuring Ali Campbell, to Harare, Zimbabwe, for a show that will go down in history as ICONIC,” he said.
“This event has been in the making for a couple of years, the pandemic delayed it but we are happy and super excited to finally have this legendary band in Zimbabwe.
“Looking forward to seeing many of you there.
“I am personally looking forward to the four opening acts for this show, DJ Chiweddar on the decks and on keys with Mimmie Tarukwana, Josh Ansley with his band, Sylent Nqo, and his band of brothers.
“All are young Zimbabwean musicians who we believe have so much to give through their creativity.
“As Zimbabweans we have many reasons to celebrate and this show is going to bring us all together to simply celebrate life through music,” he said.
Ali Campbell released a statement ahead of their tour.
“We will always play the classics, like Red Red Wine and (I Can’t Help) Falling In Love With You, but we like to change the beginning and end of the show.
“We will play Lean On Me and maybe add three or four new songs.
“The band members are all fantastic musicians and we have climbed back up to the biggest venues in the past 12 years.”
UB40 are celebrating 45 years in the business after having been formed in December 1978 in Birmingham.
They have sold over 70 million records to date.
