Norman Hassan
Norman Hassan | |
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Norman Hassan with UB40, Birmingham Symphony Hall, 2010 | |
Background information | |
Birth name | Norman Lamont Hassan |
Born |
Birmingham, England | 26 January 1958
Genres | Reggae |
Occupation(s) | Musician, singer |
Instruments | Percussion, trombone, vocals |
Years active | 1977–present |
Associated acts | UB40 |
Norman Lamont Hassan (Arabic: نورمان حسن; born 26 January 1958) is an English musician of Yemeni and Welsh descent who is best known as being a member of the reggae band UB40 since its foundation in 1978.
Early life
Norman Lamont Hassan was born in Birmingham to Yemeni and Welsh parents, and attended Park Hill School in the city. He worked as a carpet fitter before joining the band UB40 in 1978.
UB40
After starting off as percussionist in 1978, he learned the trombone in 1981, when the band decided to add a brass section. He sang his first lead vocal on Labour of Love. He is also known for his on-stage dancing.
Personal life
Like the rest of UB40, he still lives in the City of Birmingham. He is also a fan of the local football club Birmingham City. He has wide-ranging musical tastes, from reggae to soul to opera.[1]