On 7 June 2026, I made my way to the fantastic SunBet Arena in Pretoria for a night of timeless music, nostalgia, and pure entertainment as UB40 featuring Ali Campbell took to the stage. Before getting into the music, a huge shout-out must go to the teams at Big Concerts and TPW Agency for delivering another exceptionally well-organised event from start to finish. The experience was seamless, professional, and a reminder of why international tours continue to thrive in South Africa.
The evening began with opening act Tidal Waves, who had the important task of warming up an eager crowd. The South African reggae outfit has built a reputation for delivering uplifting reggae sounds infused with local flavour, making them the perfect choice to set the tone for the evening. Their laid-back grooves and positive energy quickly got the audience into the spirit of the night, proving why they remain one of the country’s respected reggae acts.
As the lights dimmed and the anticipation reached its peak, the moment everyone had been waiting for finally arrived. UB40 featuring Ali Campbell stepped onto the stage and immediately reminded everyone why they remain one of the most beloved reggae acts in the world.
At 67 years young, Ali Campbell completely shattered any notion that age has anything to do with performance. I’ve always believed that age is just a number that doesn’t really exist when passion and purpose are involved, and Ali demonstrated that perfectly throughout the evening. From the moment he walked on stage until the final encore, his energy, charisma, and vocal delivery had the arena captivated.
For those unfamiliar with the genre, UB40 helped popularise reggae-pop worldwide. Their music combines the rhythmic heartbeat of Jamaican reggae, the bass-heavy influences of dub, and accessible pop melodies that make every song instantly memorable. The result is music that feels relaxed yet infectious music that encourages you to sway, dance, sing along, and simply enjoy the moment. UB40’s unique blend of reggae, dub, and pop helped bring the genre into the global mainstream and created a catalogue of songs that have stood the test of time.
One of the highlights of the evening for me was seeing Bitty McLean on stage alongside Ali Campbell. Many reggae fans will know Bitty as the British-Jamaican singer who enjoyed major success in the 1990s with hits such as “It Keeps Rainin’ (Tears from My Eyes)” and “Dedicated to the One I Love.” Throughout the night, he effortlessly switched between backing vocalist, hype man, and featured performer, adding another layer of entertainment to an already outstanding show. His chemistry with Ali was evident, and the crowd thoroughly enjoyed every moment he was on stage.
The setlist was packed with the songs that have become the soundtrack to generations. The audience erupted as the opening notes of “Kingston Town” rang out across the arena. “Red Red Wine” transformed the venue into one giant sing-along, while “(I Can’t Help) Falling in Love with You” created one of those magical concert moments where thousands of voices become one.
What impressed me most was how every song still felt fresh. These aren’t simply old hits being replayed for nostalgia’s sake; they remain powerful songs that continue to connect with audiences’ decades after they were first released. Looking around the arena, it was impossible not to notice fans of all ages singing every word, dancing in the aisles, and celebrating music that has transcended generations.
By the end of the evening, there wasn’t a person in the arena who wasn’t smiling. Ali Campbell and his band delivered exactly what fans came for: timeless music, incredible musicianship, and a reminder that great songs never grow old.
Thank you once again to Big Concerts, TPW Agency, Tidal Waves, Bitty McLean, and of course UB40 featuring Ali Campbell for an unforgettable evening of reggae-pop magic. Long may the music continue.