Jamal Edwards—the icon, the pioneer, and the trailblazer of British music—has tragically passed away aged 31.
Edwards' game-changing creation of the YouTube channel SmokeyBarz Television (SBTV) from his bedroom at the age of 15 provided an unmatched platform for upcoming artists. Initially filming rappers by mode of Handycam, SBTV's production value and reputation grew through the noughties and teenies into the online powerhouse it continues to be today. Launching the careers of Skepta, Wretch 32, and Kano, to name but a few, Edwards' momentous ear for talent was unequalled.
In 2010, with an already immeasurable contribution to Black British culture, SBTV was credited with branching into pop, discovering the likes of Ed Sheeran, and continuing to boost the early careers of grime stars like Stormzy, Dave, and many more. Edwards received an MBE in 2015 for services to music and business and was regularly commended on his entrepreneurship skills, his influence, and philanthropy.
In the wake of his death—which reportedly occured on Sunday morning (20 February)—countless tributes have poured in from the multitude of artists whom he paved the way for. One such artist is Lady Leshurr, who today praised Edwards for "showcasing" her talent and giving her "opportunity after opportunity" throughout her career.
Jamal will be fondly remembered for his charisma, the opportunities he gave, and his awe-inspiring work ethic. Back in 2015, a tweet he posted expertly summed up his and SBTV's remarkable legacy: "We all die. The goal isn't to live forever; the goal is to create something that will".
Jamal Edwards was responsible for opening the ears of many to a whole new world of sound and cementing grime as the next big UK genre. He took the chance on those who may well not have had one otherwise. He consistently demonstrated his truth so that others may follow suit. He was one of a kind, and he will be greatly missed.
