Long-time member of UB40, Terence “Astro” Wilson, has passed away at the age of 64 after a brief illness.
Astro was a founding member of Birmingham’s UB40 and amounted hits such as “Red Red Wine” and “Can’t Help Falling in Love” placing him as one of the most well-known pioneers in mainstream reggae music in the U.K and across the globe. Drummer Jimmy Brown describes the group as accidental influencers in the reggae scene as they were simply “a bunch of potheads, smoking weed and playing music” enjoying life and appreciating the importance of a good vibe. He states in an interview with Vulture Magazine “We weren’t planning the revolution, but if the revolution happened, we knew what side we were going to be on.”. The band symbolised power, fun and freedom during a generation that still fostered ignorance towards the Windrush generation where African-Caribbean immigrants came to help rebuild England after World War II despite backlash and scorn from others.
Astro’s fans were many and he was able to touch the hearts of a people who felt misunderstood or out of place. His memory, along with his music, will be treasured for generations to come as we are hopefully able to look back fondly with the progress out current society is making. Bandmate Ali Campbell who toured with Astro for over a decade tweeted from the UB40 official account to say “We are absolutely devastated and completely heartbroken to have to tell you that our beloved Astro has today passed away after a very short illness. The world will never be the same without him.”.
Here at LELLEON Vinyl Terence Wilson will continue to be a source of inspiration and joy as we reflect on his life through his music fondly.
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