One of the United Kingdom’s most popular reggae groups is coming to Elgin’s MacMoray Festival in 2026.
UB40, who have sold more than 100 million albums and have had more than 50 charting singles in the UK, will headline the festival on Sunday, May 3.
The group, known internationally for their hit ‘Red, Red Wine’, was formed in Birmingham in 1978 and currently consists of 11 members. Lead singer Matt Doyle joined the band in 2021, taking over from Duncan Campbell, UB40’s lead singer since 2008, who retired after suffering a stroke
The current line-up features long-time members, including Martin Meredith (saxophone/WX7/keyboards); Laurence Parry (trumpet/flugal trombone) and Ian Thompson(saxophone).
MacMoray Festival organiser Andy MacDonald said he was “buzzing” to secure such a big band.
“I have always Loved UB40 and grew up loving their music,” he said. “It’s a band that has been requested so many times and, finally, I’m proud to announce they are coming to MacMoray. I needed a band from the 80s to perform and these guys are perfect. I’m humbled to know that MacMoray is making noise on a national scale and now more and more big names are wanting to perform here. I’m absolutely buzzing.”
Early today, it was announced that Black Lace – a fan favourite at the 2025 running of MacMoray Festival – would be returning to the event in 2026 to play the main stage on Saturday, May 2. The Saturday main stage line-up so far is: The Fratellis; Black Lace; Skippinish; Alice Deejay; Punk Rock Factory; Ru Mac; MacTa; The Wanted and George Bowie. The Sunday main stage is: UB40; Basshunter; 2 Unlimited; Tide Lines; Torridon; Cammy Barnes; East 17 and Drums ‘n’ Roses. Tickets for both days are available online at macmoray.com – grab yours quickly as 96% have already been sold.
