Music Pioneer Jamal Edwards Dead at 31; Helped Launch Careers of Ed Sheeran, Jessie J, and Rita Ora

British music entrepreneur Jamal Edwards has died at 31 after a sudden illness. Edward’s mother, Brenda Edwards, released a statement Monday morning.

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

She continues, “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.”

Edwards was a force to reckoned with in the music industry and helped with the careers of music artists like Ed Sheeran, Jessie J, and Rita Ora.

Rita Ora posted an Instagram post of Edwards on her Instagram. She captioned, “My first ever interview was with you.”

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“Jamal, Our endless talks on music and the belief you had in me and so many of us before we even believed in ourselves. I’m devastated. No words can describe how grateful I am to of been in your presence. Thank you for all you ever showed me. My heart goes out to @brendaedwardsglobal and the whole family. 🕊 RIP 🕊”

The British music mogul founded SmokeyBarz TV (SBTV), which has over 1.2 million subscribers. On top of his buzzing career, he gave back to the community. Edwards was an ambassador for Prince’s Trust, a youth charity run by Prince Charles. The youth charity helps young people create their own companies.

Prince Charles and wife Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, shared their condolences to Edwards’ family in a tweet.

Thinking of the family of Jamal Edwards today.

His work in music but also as an ambassador for a new generation, including his work for The Prince’s Trust, were an inspiration to so many. https://t.co/upNgux1mxU

— Clarence House (@ClarenceHouse) February 21, 2022

“Thinking of the family of Jamal Edwards today. His work in music but also as an ambassador for a new generation, including his work for The Prince’s Trust, were an inspiration to so many.”