Rain or shine, good vibes set for UB40 concert

Organisers of UB40 and Ali Campbell’s Big Love Tour concert in Nadi say the show will go on despite forecasts of unsettled weather.

The Fiji Meteorological Service has predicted rain in parts of the Western Division on Friday, but concert organisers say spirits remain high.

Concert organiser Moe Coffey said the excitement surrounding the event had not waned.

“Every event we do is important, but this one feels very special for Fiji,” he said.
“The vibe and hype around UB40 and Ali Campbell returning to Fiji has been really positive.”

Mr Coffey said the concert was about bringing people together through music.

“It’s about the community more than anything. It will be an amazing concert — all the hits, all the classics we all grew up with,” he said.

Ali Campbell will be joined by Kiwi roots-reggae band Katchafire, alongside Fiji’s own Paradise Roots, Nicky & Ouvacast, and DJ Vibez, creating what organisers describe as a powerhouse line-up.

Mr Coffey confirmed tickets would be available at the gate.

“A few thousand tickets have already been sold. There are still tickets available online, and tickets will also be available at the gate on the day — so the more the merrier,” he said.

From student fan to concert partner

For Rosie Travel Group managing director Tony Whitton, the concert represents a full-circle moment.

Growing up in the 1980s and early 1990s, reggae was a soundtrack for many young people in Fiji, with UB40 featuring prominently during Mr Whitton’s school years at Mount St Mary’s and Natabua High School, and later at university.

Songs such as Red Red Wine and Kingston Town were part of everyday life, blending naturally with island culture.

That connection deepened in 2006 when Rosie Holidays worked with the band during their Who You Fighting For world tour.

Nearly two decades later, Rosie Holidays has been named the official ground operator and logistics partner for UB40’s return to Fiji.

“We are the official partner with the homecoming organisers, providing all ground transportation,” Mr Whitton said.
“We are also delivering event logistics and solutions on the ground.”

He said the band would arrive on Thursday, with Rosie Holidays managing all VIP transfers.

The partnership is expected to boost Fiji’s profile as a destination for major music events and support increased visitor arrivals into Nadi.

With more than 71 million records sold worldwide, UB40 remain one of the most successful and influential reggae acts of all time, with timeless No.1 hits including Red Red Wine, Can’t Help Falling in Love, I Got You Babe and Kingston Town.

Gates open at 2pm, with opening performances throughout the afternoon. Katchafire takes the stage at 7pm, with the concert concluding at 10pm.