Urban music platform SBTV founder Jamal Edwards, 31, is dead of sudden illness

Jamal Edwards died on Sunday, February 20th, at the age of 31. The music mogul’s mother revealed to DailyMail that he died of a “sudden illness.”
Jamal Edwards has been dubbed a pioneer of British rap and grime music. Edwards developed SBTV, an online urban music platform that helped British performers Ed Sheeran, Dave, and Skepta launch their careers.
Jamal Edwards’ mother confirmed his death in a message to Good Morning Britain, according to DailyMail.
Susanna Reid, a television presenter, gave out the statement on Monday, February 21.

“It is with deepest heartache that I confirm that my beautiful son Jamal Edwards passed away yesterday morning after a sudden illness. Myself, his sister and the rest of his family and friends are completely devastated. He was the centre of our world,” read the statement.

“As we come to terms with the 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.”

Tributes have poured in from entertainers who have praised Jamal Edwards’s contribution to the British music scene. British rapper AJ Tracey wrote: “RIP Jamal Edwards, west London legend status.”

Comedian Munya Chawawa wrote: “To think how many dreams were fulfilled and how much potential was discovered because of your platform and work. What an incredible legacy.”

Mo Gilligan wrote: “A truly humble and blessed soul. Your legacy will live on for years and you’ve inspired a whole generation. Rest Easy Jamal Edwards.”

Jamal Edwards launched his media platform SBTV in 2006.
According to the BBC, SBTV was started on a £20 phone. The platform launched the careers of several British artists like Ed Sheeran, Stormzy, Skepta, J Hus, Krept and Konan, Headie One and several others.
In 2017, he told BBC Radio 1Extra that he also created the platform out of frustration.

“Everyone in my area was an MC and I remember thinking: ‘Why can’t I find these online? I’m going to film people in my area and upload it to YouTube.”

Speaking to The Guardian, rapper Yungen said: “Jamal was literally picking talent up from the street.”
He added that SBTV was THE place. “It was a milestone,” he said.

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