Unfortunately, we begin this week with sad news as the founder of SBTV and music entrepreneur Jamal Edwards passed away. He was only 31 years old.
The Shade Room announced that ‘we’re saddened to report that British music entrepreneur #JamalEdwards is no longer with us. According to a statement released by his mother Brenda Edwards, Jamal passed away on the morning of February 20. The music industry credits Jamal as a pioneer who founded the online platform SBTV and helped launch the careers of several big names including #EdSheeran and #JessieJ.’
‘Brenda released her touching statement to the British TV talk show @loosewomen, where she stars as a panelist. She named a “sudden illness” as the cause of her son’s passing. Brenda revealed feeling the “deepest heartache” and “completely devastated” over the news.’
‘He was the centre of our world,’ Brenda wrote. ‘As we come to terms with his passing we ask for privacy to grieve this unimaginable loss. I would like to thank everyone for their messages of love and support. Jamal was an inspiration to myself and so many. Our love for him lives on, his legacy lives on. Long live Jamal Edwards MBE, MBA and PHD.’
TSR also noted: ‘Jamal, who was raised in West London, is a big name in the British rap and grime industry, per @cnn.’
Someone said: ‘He really achieved so much at his young age. RIP Jamal.’
A commenter posted this: ‘He was a big influence on UK music, starting Adele, Dave and Ed Sheeran…’
One other follower said: ‘so sad everyone passing away , may god gives his family strength.’
More people continued to express their sadness via the comments section. Stay tuned for more news and also make sure to stay safe.