Sunday Special: Ub40 (Sunday 14th May 2023)

In the world of music, there's an exhilarating journey from the early days of struggling to make a name for yourself to basking in the glory of a massive global following. It's a journey that changes not only your perspective but also your ability to enjoy the very essence of music - live performances. The band that's been through it all now finds themselves enjoying the stage more than ever, and in this wild adventure, we'll dive into why that is, their connection to Birmingham's rich musical culture, the influence of the legendary Bob Marley, and the ever-present political undercurrent in their music.

A Journey of Self-Discovery

"We enjoy playing live more now than ever because we have proven ourselves and gained a massive global following. It settles our nerves and allows us to enjoy ourselves."

As time unfolds and experience accumulates, the stage becomes not just a platform but a familiar playground. The confidence that comes from years of honing your craft and performing to audiences worldwide is like a soothing balm for the nerves. It's an opportunity to relish the very act of making music and sharing it with the world.

Birmingham: Where Diversity Shapes Sound

"Birmingham has a rich musical culture, not just heavy metal. We were surrounded by Asian pop music, Bollywood music, and Jamaican pop music."

Birmingham, often associated with the heavy metal scene, is a melting pot of musical genres. The eclectic mix of Asian, Bollywood, and Jamaican influences was the backdrop against which this band was formed. In such a diverse environment, it's no wonder they found their calling in reggae. The fusion of cultures in Birmingham is their wellspring of creativity, and they're proud of it.

Trailblazing in a Diverse World

"Seeing black and white members in the same band was not a big deal for us, but we were seen as trailblazers."

In a city where diversity is celebrated, a band with a mix of black and white members shouldn't raise eyebrows, but it did. They were pioneers in their own right, challenging stereotypes and preconceived notions, showing that great music transcends racial boundaries.

The Marley Influence

"Bob Marley was the catalyst for our band. Seeing him perform live in Birmingham in 1976 inspired us to pursue music."

Bob Marley, an iconic figure who bridged the gap between politics and music, left an indelible mark on the band. His powerful presence, both as a performer and a political figure, acted as a beacon of inspiration, urging them to embark on a musical journey that would change their lives forever.

Music as a Political Voice

"When you have success and a platform, you feel it's your responsibility to say something important."

In a world where music has the power to influence hearts and minds, the band chose to make their voices heard. The early days of their career were marked by politically charged lyrics, a trend that continues to this day. They felt that if they were going to say something, it had to be something important. Music became their medium for highlighting social issues, and it's a responsibility they still hold dear.

Current Political Landscape

"Nothing has changed really; everything is cyclical and, in many ways, it's worse."

As they look around at the world today, it's impossible to ignore the echoes of the past. Issues they sang about decades ago continue to persist. The political landscape, with its widening wealth gap and resurfacing racism, fuels their creative fire. It's a stark reminder that music remains a vital tool for sparking change.

A Glance to the Future

"Still writing about the same things we did on our first album, because nothing has really changed."

Despite the world's challenges, they continue to write songs that address the very issues they sang about in their early days. It's an unwavering commitment to use their music as a force for change.

The Chrissie Hynde Connection

"She really came to see us and offered us her tour."

In the journey of any band, there are pivotal moments, and one such moment came when the legendary Chrissie Hynde attended one of their early gigs. Recognizing their talent and potential, she offered them a tour slot, effectively launching their careers. The band's gratitude for this opportunity knows no bounds.

An Ongoing Adventure

Every step in their journey has brought them closer to music's core. They've ridden the waves of success, faced the daunting political landscape, and thrived on the diversity of their beloved Birmingham. Today, they stand as a testament to the power of music and the enduring impact of Bob Marley. As they continue to use their platform to drive change, they remind us that music isn't just about sound; it's about the message, the passion, and the journey.

In their story, we find inspiration, a call to action, and a celebration of the ever-evolving world of music. And as they embark on a new chapter, the adventure continues with the same fiery spirit and a deep-seated belief in the transformative power of their art.