Jamal Edwards.Photo: Jeff Spicer/Getty Images
Jamal Edwards, a music pioneer who helped launched the careers of various British artists, has died. He was 31.
Jamal’s mother, Brenda Edwards — a host on the UK daytime showLoose Women— confirmed his death in a statement shared on her series' Twitter account early 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,” shewrote. “Myself, his sister Tanisha and the rest of his family and friends are completely devastated. He was the center of our world.”
“As we come to terms with his passing we ask for privacy to grieve this unimaginable loss,” Brenda continued. “I would like to thank everyone for their messages of love and support.”
She added: “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.”
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David M. Benett/Dave Benett/Getty Images
In 2014, when he was 24, Jamal received an MBE (Member of the British Empire) award for his services to music, the outlet added.
Shortly after news of Jamal’s death was announced, some of his famous friends shared their condolences on social media.
Prince Charles, 73, and wifeCamilla, Duchess of Cornwall, reposted a photo of the Prince of Wales with Jamal on their joint Twitter account.
“Thinking of the family of Jamal Edwards today,” the royal couplewrotein their post. “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.”
Ora, 31, meanwhile shared animageof herself and Jamal on Instagram, writing in her caption, “My first ever interview was with you.”
“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,” the “Ritual” singer wrote. “Thank you for all you ever showed me.”
source: people.com
