UB40 stand up for Birmingham music scene at Rainbow benefit gig in Digbeth

Nov 4 2009 by Edward Chadwick, Birmingham Post

Last night’s show at the 500-capacity Rainbow Warehouse was expected to raise up to £15,000 towards the roof fund and work is expected to begin shortly on the sound-proof structure.

Mr Travers said he had spoken to Rainbow landlord Kent Davis after hearing about the pub’s plight earlier this year.

The band, who have sold more than 70 million albums worldwide in a career spanning four decades, negotiated terms with the promoters of their forthcoming European tour to allow them to play their most intimate gig in years.

Mr Davis said: “UB40 have demonstrated that they are as good to their principles today as they were when I was listening to them 28 years ago.

“They personify why keeping live music venues vibrant is so important. They are inspirational. This is without doubt the gig of the year.”

Fans began queuing from 4pm to greet the band as they arrived from their nearby studios to sound check ahead of last night’s performance.

Elise Astrin, a 33-year-old teacher, had driven from Devon for the show. She said: “They haven’t forgotten where they came from and that’s why they’re doing this show tonight to try to help and put something back. It’s amazing to see them performing in such a small venue for a change and I can’t wait.”