The feud between UB40, the world’s biggest reggae band, took a further twist when it was announced that lead singer Ali Campbell would be replaced by a new member - his brother Duncan.

The Birmingham group, who topped the charts with Red Red Wine, have sold more than 70 million records over 30 years. But they have parted company with Ali Campbell over contested claims that the frontman, 49, wanted to pursue a solo career.

As one of Britain’s most successful musical exports, with a large international fanbase, the remaining members were determined to continue as a family concern.

Previously, Ali Campbell shared guitar and vocal duties with his brother Robin. But they no longer speak. At a London press conference the remaining members unveiled a third Campbell brother, Duncan, as their new vocalist.

Duncan Campbell will share vocal duties with fellow Birmingham reggae performer Maxi Priest at live concerts. Duncan sings seven songs on a new UB40 album which also features Ali’s final performances with the band.

Duncan said relations with his younger brother were “strained” at present. He said Ali had given him his blessing to take over as vocalist, but added this conversation was the only one they had had recently.

Robin Campbell, 53, said: “We bent over backwards to accommodate his (Ali’s) need to break out solo but in the end he just wanted to make more money.”

Ali Campbell said he wanted to investigate the financial management of the band’s affairs and believed his solo project, featuring Smokey Robinson and Mick Hucknall, could have helped sales of UB40’s new album, 24/7. There are four Campbell brothers, fathered by Scottish folk singer Ian Campbell.

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