Red Red Wine is Pouring as UB40 Rocks Pompano Beach, Fl

2024-08-12

Pompano Beach, Fl – It is a balmy, mid-summer evening on August 9, 2024 as the sun sets over Pompano Beach and the vibrant energy at the Pompano Beach Amphitheater becomes palpable as fans eagerly await UB40, currently on their Red Red Wine tour with support from Maxi Priest and The English Beat. Fans of all ages, clad in tropical prints and UB40 merch, fill the venue, eagerly awaiting a night of reggae and ska. The air is warm, with a light breeze from the giant fans offering a welcome reprieve from the August heat.

The concert opens with Maxi Priest, the British reggae artist known for his smooth, soulful voice and fusion of reggae with R&B. Maxi takes the stage and delivers a performance that is both intimate and powerful. He opens with the hit “Close To You,” immediately drawing the audience into his world of melodic reggae grooves. Maxi’s stage presence is magnetic, creating a sense of connection that resonates with all in attendance. His rendition of “Wild World” has couples swaying together, while tracks like “Housecall” showcase his versatility and command over different styles within the reggae genre. Maxi Priest’s set is a masterclass in blending genres while staying true to the roots of reggae. Fans enjoy his set and are left wanting more as Maxi Priest wraps up his time on stage.

Next up is The English Beat, a band that has been a cornerstone of the 2-tone ska movement since the late 1970s. Dave Wakeling, the band’s frontman and sole remaining original member, leads the charge with his charismatic presence and infectious energy. The English Beat’s set is a whirlwind of upbeat ska rhythms and socially conscious lyrics, with the crowd bouncing along to the band’s signature blend of ska, punk, and reggae. Tracks like “Mirror in the Bathroom” and “Save It for Later” are greeted with enthusiastic cheers, as fans revel in the nostalgia of the era. Fans are especially excited when the band tears into “Tenderness” by General Public, one of Wakeling’s other projects. Wakeling’s smooth vocals and the band’s tight instrumentation remind everyone why The English Beat has remained a popular act for decades. Fans are a bit disappointed in the length of their set, a mere 25 minutes or so. The abrupt end leaves fans looking at each other wondering why the set was so short, as they were having such a good time.

Finally, as the stage lights dim and the crowd’s anticipation reaches its peak, UB40 takes the stage. This tour, while billed the Red Red Wine tour could also be named the “UB45 Tour,” as it marks the band’s 45th anniversary—a testament to their enduring legacy in the world of reggae and pop. Led by Robin Campbell and Matt Doyle, with the unmistakable brass section that includes Martin Meredith on saxophone and Lawrence Parry on trumpet, UB40 launches into their set with the classic “Here I Am (Come and Take Me).” The crowd erupts, singing along with every word.

The band’s performance is a journey through their extensive catalog, from the socially charged “One in Ten” to the romantic “Kingston Town.” UB40’s blend of reggae, pop, and covers has always set them apart, and tonight is no different. Each song is met with enthusiasm, with “Red Red Wine”, “Cherry Oh Baby” and “(I Can’t Help) Falling in Love with You” standing out as highlights of the night. The band’s chemistry is evident, with Robin’s guitar work and Matt’s vocals harmonizing effortlessly, while the brass section adds a dynamic layer to the sound.

As the night progresses, it’s clear that UB40 is more than just a band; they are a cultural institution that continues to captivate audiences across generations. The “UB45 Tour” is not just a celebration of their music, but a tribute to the fans who have supported them throughout the years.

As the final notes echo through the amphitheater, the crowd erupts in applause, clearly satisfied, yet yearning for more. The atmosphere is electric, with smiles all around and fans slowly making their way out, still singing the tunes they’ve heard. The night is a celebration of reggae’s timeless and international appeal, with UB40 at the helm, delivering a performance that will be remembered for years to come. Fans who can’t make a live show are in for a treat as the show immediately following this one, will be in St. Augustine, Fl on August 10, 2024 and will be live streamed.