April 30, 2008 17:00

UB40 announce singer replacement

Brother Duncan to replace Ali Campbell

Former UB40 singer Ali Campbell is to be replaced in the band by his brother Duncan, with reggae singer Maxi Priest also bolstering the line-up on tour.

Ali Campbell, quit in an acrimonious fall-out earlier this year. He said he left the group because he was unhappy with the management of the band's financial and business affairs. He fronted the group for 30 years.

Duncan, a former professional spoon player, will join his other brother, guitarist Robin Campbell, in the group.

He said he asked for Ali's blessing before stepping in, but stressed they were not otherwise on speaking terms.

Duncan said: "I told him if he objected strongly, I wouldn't do it. But I haven't spoken to him since" Duncan added. "The wounds are fresh."

Ali replied that he was "disappointed but didn't object", according to Robin.

Robin Campbell said : "He left to pursue a solo career for the financial benefits that that brings. That's what he told me."

He went onto say that the brothers' relations with Ali would "take a lot of healing".

"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."

The band are giving away a version of their new album, 'Twentyfourseven' with the Mail on Sunday newspaper this week.

The 10-track CD is the last work recorded with Ali Campbell, reports BBC.