UB40 founding member Brian Travers has died aged 62. He was a songwriter and saxophone player with the band.
Travis formed the band from across several schools in Birmingham in 1978. They went on to have numerous hits, including “Falling In Love With You” and “Red Red Wine”. They also sold over 100 million albums globally and had more than 40 top 40 UK tracks.
Travers’ last performance with the band was in the Birmingham Arena in 2019.
He is also survived by his wife Lesley and their son Jamie and daughter Lisa.
Tributes to Travers
A statement from the band confirmed that Travers had been suffering from cancer and died in his home in Moseley on Sunday.
“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our comrade, brother, founding UB40 member and musical legend, Brian David Travers”, the statement said.
“Brian passed away yesterday evening after a long and heroic battle with cancer. Our thoughts are with Brian’s wife Lesley, his daughter Lisa and son Jamie. We are all devastated by this news and ask that you respect the family’s need for privacy at this time”.
Along with UB40, Musical Youth also tweeted, “Very sad to hear about the passing of a Birmingham music legend Brian Travers who dedicated his musical life promoting reggae music around the world. Our thoughts and prayers go out to #UB40 and all of his family”.
Other tributes include.
I have lost a friend. Brian Travers you were my number one fan and I yours. You may have played your final note, but we’ll keep singing to your tune my brother from another. As you said in your final words to me, “shukria bro”. Love to Lesley, Lisa & Jamie ❤️ #UB40 pic.twitter.com/ZrVViqoIxv
— Adil Ray OBE (@adilray) August 23, 2021
R.I.P. Brian Travers of #UB40 near the top of my all time favourite bands and music genres – if you haven’t sang Red Red Wine at the top of your voice, with your mates after the match, and a Large Dock of White in your hand in Yates Wine Lodge you haven’t lived 🍷🍷🍷🍷🥃🥃🥃🥃 pic.twitter.com/Ivq2Us0yIK
— Kell (@Kelltheblue) August 23, 2021
Earlier this year, the band’s front man Duncan Campbell had confirmed that he was retiring from music.
He said in a statement, “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”.
More on that report here.
