World-renowned DJ, author, entrepreneur and designer Jamal Edwards has reportedly passed away at 31 years old.
Jamal Edwards was a man of many talents, but he was known to most as the founder of SB:TV. Edwards’ groundbreaking platform featured early music from stars like Ed Sheeran, Dave, Stormzy and Krept & Konan. His passion for music and eye for talent attracted more than one million subscribers to his YouTube channel in just under two decades. In 2014, he earned an MBE, a prestigious award recognizing contributions to the arts and sciences and work with charitable organizations.
Jamal Edwards’ passing was felt by many throughout the U.K. and the world of entertainment at large. Several of his close friends, collaborators and fans took to social media to share their thoughts.
[I] never thought I’d be typing this one here. [Rest In Peace] Jamal Edwards. [He is a] true U.K. music legend. [He’s] been a real one since we connected back in ‘08, when I had to sneak [him] into my grime rave to film [because] you were only 17. You changed the game big time! Rest easy, my brother,” Joseph Patterson of Complex tweeted.
“I think I can speak for us all as artists and as supporters of U.K. grime/rap scene when I say I owe this man so much! [He] helped me sometimes without even speaking of it,” Jaykae added.
At this time, it is unclear what caused Edwards’ death. At Def Pen, our condolences are with the family and friends of this artistic pioneer.
