Iconic British reggae band UB40 featuring Ali Campbell will bring their reggae magic to Wales next summer with two dates in Llangollen and Cardiff.
Fuelled by the unmistakable voice that propelled UB40 to more than 70 million record sales and 51 UK chart hits, Ali Campbell will headline Live at Llangollen Pavilion on Saturday June 28 before heading to TK Maxx presents Depot Live at Cardiff Castle on Sunday June 29.
The band will be joined on both nights by special guests Bitty McLean and Pato Banton.
Ali Campbell, UB40s original lead singer, says his current touring ensemble still captures the true spirit of UB40 resonating with audiences everywhere.
He said: “I think I’ve got the best reggae band in the world. They are all seasoned musicians, who have spent all their lives in professional bands, and I feel so confident with them.”
With a legacy spanning more than 45 years, fans can expect live shows filled with timeless classics that is sure to be unforgettable.
Special guest on both nights will be British reggae singer and songwriter Bitty McLean. Bitty is renowned for his smooth voice and significant contributions to the genre during the 1990s, rising to fame with hit singles like It Keeps Rainin’ and Standing on the Ground.
Opening the shows will be British reggae artist Pato Banton who has captivated audiences for more than three decades with his infectious energy and uplifting messages. He is best known for his 1994 number-one hit Baby Come Back, a dynamic collaboration with UB40.
The headline concerts for Live at Llangollen Pavilion are presented in a partnership between Live Nation promoters Cuffe and Taylor and the Llangollen International Eisteddfod, while TK Maxx presents Depot Live at Cardiff Castle is presented by DEPOT Live and Cuffe and Taylor.
Artistic Director of the Llangollen International Eisteddfod Dave Danford said: “UB40 featuring Ali Campbell were last here in 2016 and brought the house down. We’re so pleased that they’ll be back in Llangollen next summer, alongside two brilliant special guests.”
Nick Saunders from DEPOT Live said: “We’re beyond excited to welcome UB40 featuring Ali Campbell to Cardiff Castle for the first time. It’s an incredible opportunity to host such an iconic band in the city’s most historic venue, and we know it’s going to be a night to remember for fans.”
The announcement is the latest reveal for both venues for summer 2025 which will also see Rag’n’Bone Man, Olly Murs, Texas and The Script headline Live at Llangollen Pavilion, and Fontaines DC, Alanis Morissette, Elbow, Sting and The Script all headline Cardiff Castle with more announcements to come.
Tickets go on general sale 10am Friday from llangollen.net for Llangollen Pavilion, depotlive.co.uk for Cardiff Castle and both shows from www.ticketmaster.co.uk
