Singer Duncan Campbell has quit UB40 and retired from music after suffering a seizure earlier this month.
The 63-year-old frontman suffered a stroke in August last year, and had spent the last ten months recovering to prepare for the reggae group’s upcoming tour.
The band shared a statement this morning in which they said the would be announcing a new lead singer imminently..
Duncan said: “Unfortunately, due to continued ill health, I have reluctantly decided to retire from the band so as to focus on my recovery.
“I am very grateful, and would like to express my sincere thanks to the fans for all their support during this time and indeed throughout my time with UB40.
“The band have my full support going forward and, of course, my very best wishes for the future with their new singer.”
Campbell’s older brother and bandmate Robin said on behalf of UB40: “We’ve been rehearsing with every intention of Duncan’s return to performing, but sadly, after suffering further illness, he has made the decision to retire from music in order to concentrate fully on his recovery.
“While we are deeply saddened, we completely understand and fully support his decision.
“As far as touring goes, we are ready to hit the road for our upcoming summer shows and will be announcing our new frontman imminently.”
In August last year, the band confirmed in a statement that Duncan had been taken to hospital after suffering a stroke.
Writing on their Instagram page they said: “We can confirm that our lead singer and brother Duncan Campbell was taken to hospital after suffering a stroke.
“While we can report that he is already up and about, we ask fans to respect Duncan and the family’s privacy as he works his way back to what we all hope will be a strong and speedy recovery.
“We look forward to seeing you all on the road next spring.”
UB40 formed in 1978 in Birmingham, naming themselves after the form issued to people claiming for unemployment benefits.
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The band is famous for hits like Red Red Wine and Falling In Love With You and has scored more than 40 top 40 songs in the UK.
In January 2008 UB40 was rocked when frontman Ali left the band over a disagreement about management.
He was replaced by older brother Duncan as lead singer, and has since toured as part of the breakaway group UB40 Featuring Ali, Astro & Mickey.
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
