Ali Campbell Unveils His First Album of 2025: “Roots Revival” to Be Released
Ali Campbell, the iconic frontman of UB40 and one of reggae’s most enduring voices, is set to start the new year on a high note with the release of his highly anticipated album, “Roots Revival.” Scheduled to drop in late February 2025, the album is being hailed as a return to the foundational elements of reggae that first inspired Campbell’s musical journey. Packed with a blend of original compositions and thoughtfully reimagined classics, “Roots Revival” promises to capture the essence of Campbell’s signature sound while paying homage to the rich legacy of reggae music.
A Celebration of Reggae’s Foundation
“Roots Revival” marks a deliberate effort by Campbell to revisit the core of reggae music, a genre that has profoundly shaped his artistry over the decades. While UB40 gained global fame for their fusion of reggae, pop, and dub, Campbell’s new project takes a more stripped-down approach, focusing on the raw, organic sound that defined reggae’s golden era in the 1970s.
In a statement released ahead of the album’s announcement, Campbell explained his motivation for the project: “Over the years, reggae has evolved in so many directions, which is incredible to see. But I wanted to go back to where it all began for me. ‘Roots Revival’ is my way of reconnecting with the music that inspired me as a young musician and sharing that with the world.”
The album’s production is steeped in authenticity, with much of the recording taking place at Tuff Gong Studios in Kingston, Jamaica. Known as the heartbeat of reggae, Tuff Gong has been a creative sanctuary for countless legends, including Bob Marley and the Wailers. Campbell’s choice to record there underscores his commitment to capturing the spirit of roots reggae in its purest form.
A Collaborative Journey
“Roots Revival” also features a remarkable lineup of collaborators, bringing together some of the finest talents from across the reggae spectrum. Among the standout contributors is Grammy-winning artist Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley, who co-produced several tracks and lent his distinct vocal style to a duet with Campbell. Other notable appearances include contributions from reggae royalty Marcia Griffiths, who graces the album with her soulful harmonies, and veteran guitarist Earl “Chinna” Smith, whose work on the project adds an unmistakable touch of reggae authenticity.
Campbell’s long-time bandmates from his post-UB40 projects also played a pivotal role in shaping the album’s sound. Their chemistry and shared history bring an added layer of depth and cohesion to “Roots Revival,” making it a celebration not just of reggae’s roots but also of Campbell’s own musical journey.
The Tracklist: A Mix of Old and New
The 12-track album promises to be a dynamic blend of fresh material and carefully chosen covers. Original songs like “Kingston Calling,” “Rebel Soul,” and “Rise Up” reflect Campbell’s storytelling prowess and his ability to address both personal and societal themes through music. Meanwhile, reimagined versions of reggae classics, such as Peter Tosh’s “Equal Rights” and Jimmy Cliff’s “The Harder They Come,” showcase Campbell’s reverence for the genre’s pioneers while adding his unique spin.
One particularly poignant track is “Freedom Cry,” a collaboration with South African artist Zahara. The song, which blends reggae rhythms with African musical influences, is a heartfelt call for unity and social justice. According to Campbell, “Freedom Cry” encapsulates the universal message of reggae: hope, resilience, and the fight for a better world.
The Art of Reinvention
“Roots Revival” is more than just an album; it’s a statement about the enduring relevance of reggae music. For Campbell, who has spent over four decades in the industry, the project represents a personal and artistic reinvention. While he is no stranger to exploring new musical territories, this return to reggae’s foundational sound feels like a homecoming.
“Reggae has always been about storytelling, about speaking to the heart and soul of people,” Campbell shared in a recent interview. “With ‘Roots Revival,’ I wanted to strip away the layers and get back to that raw, honest connection. It’s been an incredibly rewarding process.”
The Anticipation Builds
As news of “Roots Revival” spreads, anticipation among fans and critics alike is reaching fever pitch. Campbell’s ability to balance nostalgia with innovation has long been one of his strengths, and this project seems poised to deliver on both fronts. Early previews of tracks from the album have already sparked excitement, with many praising Campbell’s vocal performance and the album’s lush, authentic production.
In the lead-up to the album’s release, Campbell has planned a series of intimate performances and listening parties in key cities, including London, Kingston, and Los Angeles. These events will offer fans a first glimpse of the new material and provide insight into the creative journey behind “Roots Revival.”
A Legacy Continued
For Ali Campbell, “Roots Revival” is not just a look back but a step forward. It’s a celebration of reggae’s timeless appeal and a reminder of its power to inspire, heal, and unite. As one of the genre’s most recognizable voices, Campbell’s commitment to keeping reggae’s spirit alive is evident in every note of this new album.
As February approaches, the excitement surrounding “Roots Revival” continues to grow. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Campbell’s work or a newcomer to reggae, this album promises to be a powerful testament to the enduring magic of the music that started it all. For Campbell, it’s a chance to once again share his love of reggae with the world — and to remind us all why its roots run so deep.