The Music world pays tribute to Jamal Edwards following the announcement of his untimely passing. The pioneer and icon of black music was just 31 years old. Earlier, his mother, Loose Women panelist Brenda Edwards, shared a statement asking for privacy to grieve and remember her son’s huge accomplishments. “Jamal was an inspiration to me and to many,” she wrote. “Our love for him lives on, his legacy lives on.”

Born in Luton and raised in Acton, West London, the music entrepreneur founded hugely influential online video platform SB.TV when he was just fifteen, using the channel to share freestyle raps filmed on a camcorder. Championing black British artists as the mainstream industry turned the other way, Edwards pioneered an alternative approach to the music scene – putting friendship, collaboration, DIY values ​​and black voices in the foreground.

A decade ago, a video collaboration with Google Chrome showcased Edwards’ tireless work on SB.TV, and two years later he received an MBE for his distinguished achievements in music and business.

Today, friends and collaborators of Edwards share their memories of him and pay tribute to his dedication to the platform of talented new artists. “Heartbroken to hear this,” Dua Lipa wrote in an Instagram Story. “RIP Jamal. My thoughts are with all his friends and family and the many lives of people he touched and brought together. Gone way too soon. Meanwhile, Edwards’ mother loose women colleague, Stacey Solomon, said: “One of the greatest, kindest, most sincere and humble people I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. Just devastating. My thoughts and prayers go out to Brenda, Tanisha and all of Jamal’s loved ones.

Taking to Instagram, singer Jessie J – who appeared alongside Edwards on Celebrity Gogglebox – shared a behind-the-scenes video from their shoot of the show. Next, she wrote, “Your light. Your ideas. Your love for your mom and your sister. Your work ethic. Your dedication to making a difference, not just in this industry, but in this world. Your laugh. Your laugh. Your care for every person you met was unmatched. But your friendship… Phew. That’s why my heart is broken. We had plans, mate. I can’t believe this is real. I love you.

Ed Sheeran, a close friend and collaborator of Edwards, has now also shared a meaningful tribute online. Interestingly, Edwards’ last Instagram update, posted days before his death, was a birthday post for Sheeran, commemorating their years-long friendship.

Alongside a photo of himself and Edwards, Sheeran wrote: ‘I didn’t post anything as I can’t find the words. I can’t answer because I don’t know what to say. Jamal is my brother.

“His light shone so brightly. He only used it to enlighten others and never asked for anything in return. A light of stars shines for millions of years after they are gone, and his will will continue to illuminate every dark moment, we all witness his power.

Showing his gratitude for Edwards’ support over the years, Sheeran added: ‘I wouldn’t be here without him, professionally and personally. There will never be anything close to what he is, but I’m so grateful to have existed in his orbit. My brother, come.

Below, fellow Edwards fans pay homage to his legacy.