Tributes have poured in celebrating music mogul, Jamal Edwards, after it was announced that he had died at the age of 31. Dua Lipa, Mo Gilligan, AJ Tracey and London Mayor Sadiq Khan all led tributes to the entrepreneur yesterday (20 February).
Jamal Edwards started SB.TV, a YouTube channel which was responsible for launching the careers of a dozen of well known stars – including Emeli Sandé, Ed Sheeran, Dave and Jessie J. News of his death was confirmed to BBC but the cause of death has not been shared. Edwards was an ambassador for the Prince’s Trust, a charity headed by Prince Charles, and in 2014 he was awarded an MBE for his services to music. Jamal was the son of Loose Women presenter Brenda Edwards.
READ MORE: West London music pioneer Jamal Edwards dead at the age of 31
(Image: 2020 Lia Toby)
Comedian, Mo Gilligan, who hosted the Brit Awards earlier this month, wrote on Twitter: “Your legacy will live on for years & you’ve inspired a whole generation. Rest easy Jamal Edwards.”
Adam Deacon, a Bafta-winning actor, writer, director, and producer known for his leading role in Kidulthood, said he was “heartbroken” about the death.
He said on Twitter: “Today I was on set when I found out the tragic news that my good friend Jamal Edwards had passed away and I’m honestly heartbroken. Jamal was one of the nicest, most down to earth and humble men I’ve met in this industry. He always gave me time even when no one else would. He was an inspiration and what he achieved in life was truly remarkable. Thinking of his friends and family at this devastating time. RIP Jamal Edwards.”
Denise Welch, who appeared on Loose Women with Brenda, wrote: “My heart aches for my friend Brenda. I can’t bear it. Jamal Edwards was a wonderful son and brother.”
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Dua Lipa wrote on Instagram: “Heartbroken to hear this news. RIP Jamal. My thoughts are with all his friends and family and the many people’s lives he has touched and brought together. Gone way too soon.”
London Mayor Sadiq Khan also paid his respects: “British music and entertainment has lost one of its brightest stars.”
The official YouTube Twitter account said the industry had “lost a legend”, adding: “Jamal Edwards was an inspiration to so many, supporting artists and shaping culture through @SBTVonline. Sending our condolences to Jamal’s family & community.”
Rapper AJ Tracey added: “RIP Jamal Edwards, west London legend status.”
The MOBO Awards wrote on Twitter: “We are deeply saddened to learn of Jamal Edwards passing. As the founder of SBTV online, his ground-breaking work & legacy in British music and culture will live on. Our hearts and thoughts are with his friends and family.”
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