Matt Doyle will replace Duncan Campbell in UB40 following the singer’s retirement.
The group’s former frontman was forced to step down from the group after suffering a stroke in August 2020 and a seizure last month, the Red Red Wine hitmakers confirmed in a statement.
And the band has confirmed Kioko star Matt will step in ahead of their upcoming tour.
In a statement, he said: “I don’t quite know how to put into words just how incredibly honoured and grateful I feel to be given this opportunity.
“I have loved UB40’s music for as long as I can remember and that love has only grown since getting to know them and watching them play live night after night on tour.
“They took Kioko under their wing and gave us the opportunity of a lifetime by inviting us out on tour, and although I’ll deeply miss playing shows with Kioko I know that they will carry on to do incredible things and that we will always remain the best of mates.
“I wish the absolute best for Duncan and I hope that he makes a full and speedy recovery.
“I’ve seen how much love he puts into his performance and he has written some incredible songs that I can’t wait to sing, as well as all the hits that have been such a big influence on my own music.
“UB40 have loyal and wonderful fans and I have loved getting to know so many of them already.
“My promise to them and to the fans all around the world is that I will always give it my all singing the songs they know and love and, alongside this legendary band, bring them a performance they’ll never forget.”
Matt previously lent his vocals to UB40’s song You Don’t Call Anymore from their recent LP ‘Bigga Baggariddim’, and Robin Campbell, brother to Duncan and the group’s guitarist, called the star a “good fit” for the band.
“Matt has already demonstrated his ability and compatibility with the band on our latest album Bigga Baggariddim with the track You Don’t Call Anymore.
“He’s a talented young man with a voice and singing style that will prove to be a good fit and a great asset to the band.
“And on top of all that he’s a nice guy, too.”
Duncan replaced brother Ali Campbell in 2008 after he left over a disagreement about management. The star went on to form a splinter group, UB40 featuring Ali Campbell and Astro.
