UB40 star Ali Campbell will push ahead with his upcoming UK tour following the death of late bandmate, Astro.
The musician passed away after a “very short illness” in November at the age of 64, leaving the future of the pair’s UB40 Featuring Ali Campbell live dates hanging.
In a statement, Ali has insisted the shows will go ahead as planned, admitting he “can’t wait to get back on stage and see all our wonderful fans.”
Update ❤️💛💚 pic.twitter.com/HFMjATDewQ
— ALI CAMPBELL & ASTRO (@UB40) January 18, 2022
“It’s going to be incredibly difficult without Astro by my side,” he confessed. “Remembering Astro, let the music play on.
“Big love, Ali.”
The live dates kick off at The O2, London on February 25 and run through March 6 in Sheffield.
Ali left UB40 in 2008 over a disagreement about management and was replaced by brother Duncan in the official line-up of the group.
Astro quit in 2013 and Ali and Astro went on to tour as UB40 Featuring Ali, Astro & Mickey, along with Mickey Virtue.
The news of Astro’s passing was confirmed on the official UB40 Twitter account via a statement, which read: “RIP ASTRO
“We have heard tonight, the sad news that ex-member of UB40, Terence Wilson, better know [sic] as Astro, has passed away after a short illness.
“Our sincere condolences to his family. UB40.”
