UB40 ft Ali Campbell to headline Bedford Summer Sessions 2026

Bedford is set for a major musical return as UK reggae icons UB40 featuring Ali Campbell are confirmed to perform at Bedford Park on Friday 3rd July 2026. The announcement marks the first headline act for the Bedford Summer Sessions 2026.

It has been over a decade since UB40 ft Ali Campbell last performed in Bedford, and their return promises to be one of the standout live events of the summer. Known for their blend of reggae, pop, and socially conscious lyrics, the band is expected to deliver a vibrant set of hits spanning their decades-long career.

Ali Campbell, the original lead vocalist, said:

"When I first founded UB40 back in 1978, I put everything I had into it – including the compensation money I’d received from a criminal injury claim. None of us could have imagined we’d go on to sell over 100 million records and take reggae from Birmingham to the world. It’s been an incredible journey, and coming back to play Bedford Summer Sessions in such beautiful surroundings is the perfect way to celebrate with our fans."

UB40 first achieved international fame in the 1980s with a string of hit singles, including their reggae reinterpretations of Neil Diamond’s “Red Red Wine”, “I Got You Babe” with Chrissie Hynde, and “(I Can’t Help) Falling in Love with You”. Original albums like Signing Off (1980) and Labour of Love (1983) also cemented their reputation for tackling social issues while delivering infectious grooves.

Following Ali Campbell’s departure from UB40 in 2008, he reunited with keyboardist Mickey Virtue and later vocalist Astro to form UB40 ft Ali, Astro & Mickey, carrying forward the original spirit of the band. Fans at Bedford can expect a setlist full of classics including “Cherry Oh Baby”, “Please Don’t Make Me Cry”, and “Kingston Town”.

Support comes from Bitty McLean, the UK reggae, lovers’ rock, and ragga singer-songwriter known for his 1990s UK Top 10 hits, and Reggae Roast featuring MC Horseman, the UK’s leading reggae, dancehall, and jungle soundsystem crew.

Tickets go on general sale Friday 26th September at 10am.