Reggae legends UB40 will take part in an ‘Easter Day Double Header’ at Birmingham City’s home ground – here’s what you need to know

UB40 have joined forces with Birmingham City Football Club for the world premiere of the group’s new album – and fans who attend the club’s upcoming home match with Preston will get to see the group perform for free.

The reggae icons, who formed in Birmingham, are working with Blues to officially launch the club’s naming rights partnership on April 1, 2024, with the world premiere of the band’s new album UB45.

The event will be UB40’s ‘kick-off’ concert for its extensive 2024 World Tour. The club will unveil new St. Andrew’s stadium branding at the event. The concert is part of an ‘Easter Day Double Header’ with the Championship match against Preston North End which kicks off at 3pm.

The concert is in partnership with Greatest Hits Radio, the country’s most-listened-to commercial radio station, and will be hosted by presenter Jenny Powell.

What’s been said about the concert?

Garry Cook, Chief Executive, Birmingham City Football Club said: “St. Andrew’s on April 1 is going to be a celebration of Birmingham – the city’s football team and its favourite band UB40. We are delighted to be able to offer our fans a free concert of this stature to celebrate our new naming rights partnership”.

Robin Campbell of UB40 said: “UB40 and Blues are Birmingham. It has always been the band’s ambition to play at St. Andrew’s @ Knighthead Park again. We did it in 1989 and it was amazing. We would like to thank Garry Cook and his team for the opportunity to make our dream a reality.

“Our music is from the terraces and streets of this great city. Everything we do starts in and speaks of Birmingham. So, we could not be prouder to perform a World Premiere of the new album and kick off our World Tour after the Preston match at a place that we call home.”

Jenny Powell, Greatest Hits Radio presenter, added: “I consider myself an honorary member of UB40 as every time I see them perform, I can’t help but get on stage with them for a dance!  I’m a huge fan and am so excited to be hosting this amazing homecoming gig.  Welcoming Robin, Jimmy, Matt and the boys to the stage is going to be pretty special – see you there!”