Baz Muir and NLC join UK legends Black Slate for milestone reggae project

Singer-songwriter Baz Muir grew up idolising legendary UK roots-reggae band Black Slate.

And very shortly he’ll be able to realise his dream of releasing a song recorded with the band marking its 50 years in the music industry.

Black Slate formed in 1974 with members from England, Jamaica, and Anguilla. The artists became known for their unique style of roots-reggae, backing prominent Jamaican artists like Dennis Brown, Delroy Wilson, and Ken Boothe during their UK tours.

Their hit Amigo reached No.9 in the UK and New Zealand music charts, marking their most significant commercial success. Their influence and longevity in the reggae scene, spanning over five decades, have earned them respect and a loyal following.

Muir is among those loyal followers and so he was excited when the reggae band he leads, NLC, was asked to perform alongside Black Slate for its tour of New Zealand in January.

“I didn’t hesitate to say yes. I just thought this would be an awesome opportunity to tour with one of my favourite bands.”

After the successful tour, Black Slate founding member Anthony Brightly contacted Muir to let him know the band was recording fresh tracks and re-producing some of its signature songs for its Black Slate 50+ Collection.

Brightly was approaching artists to co-lab on the album, for a project that celebrates the band’s roots, honours its journey, and unites voices across the globe.

“He asked if we would be interested in re-recording Black Slate’s song, Losing Game. That was one of my favourite songs when I was growing up so again I just said yes straight away. I was just thrilled to be asked to be part of the project.”

Black Slate produced the music and NLC performed the vocals.

“Losing Game might not have been one of the band’s most successful songs but I liked it because I was captivated by the feel and groove of the song along with its lyrical content.”

Muir performed the lead vocals, Shaye Muir and Lynaire Simon sang the beautiful backing vocals on the track, which was recorded and tracked at Dub Studios in Whanganui.

The single will be released Friday, August 1, 2025.

Black Slate said the new album is a reunion of rhythm and a celebration of family, with three generations of the Brightly family now involved in the band’s music.

“This collection wouldn’t be complete without the energy and collaboration of our global reggae family,” the band said.

“From New Zealand, we’ve joined forces with NLC, whose stirring vocals on Losing Game bring heartache and strength in equal measure.

“Also from New Zealand,  from the incredible voice of Honey of NRG Rising, we are honoured to present Key To The World, a duet that blends harmony, soul, and unity across oceans.”

The Black Slate 50+ Collection features: Live A Life, Freedom Time, Lovers Rock, Amigo, Key To The World (feat. Honey from NRG Rising), One Girl Too Late (feat. Sissy / Cesca), Losing Game (feat. NLC).