International reggae band UB40 has revealed that they were in discussions with the late Sly Dunbar about new musical ideas prior to his passing.

In a heartfelt tribute shared on social media, the group wrote, “Words cannot describe how heartbroken I am to hear the passing of my friend and legend, Sly Dunbar.”

UB40 said they collaborated with Sly Dunbar and his longtime partner Robbie Shakespeare on numerous projects over the years and had been exploring new ideas they believe would have been “phenomenal.”

The band also underscored Sly’s lasting influence on modern music, noting that today’s beats would not exist without the reggae and dancehall riddims he pioneered.

Sly Dunbar, who died at home today, was scheduled to receive a Lifetime Achievement Award on February 7 at the Island SPACE Caribbean Museum during its Reggae Genealogy: Lights. Camera. Reggae event, in recognition of his global impact on Jamaican music.