Vivian Campbell Reflects on Tension and Escape Through Music During Northern Ireland’s Troubles

Vivian Campbell, the guitarist of Def Leppard, recently discussed his experiences during the Troubles in Northern Ireland while touring with the band Sweet Savage in the late 1970s. Campbell, who comes from a mixed religious background, revealed that on stage in certain parts of Northern Ireland, there was so much societal tension that two members of the band would refrain from speaking at all during performances. Despite the conflicts around them, Campbell emphasized that music was an escape from politics for the band, allowing them to unite on stage. He also believed that their music served as an escape for audiences, helping to bring people together at a time when the country was deeply divided. Reflecting on the changes in Belfast, Campbell expressed happiness about the improvements made since his youth. Looking ahead, Campbell shared his personal triumph, having reached 100% remission after 12 years of battling Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. He credited the success of a stem cell transplant and mentioned that, despite his age, he feels physically strong and energized. Campbell, who joined Def Leppard in the early ’90s, will be performing at Belsonic in Northern Ireland next summer, and he looks forward to reconnecting with his roots in County Donegal.