The VP Records family joins the music fraternity who mourns the loss of music industry pioneer and creative visionary, Jamal Edwards, 31. Jamal passed away on Sunday. SBTV founder and media entrepreneur, Jamal Edwards is credited with helping launch the careers of music artists including Ed Sheeran, Dave, Jessie J, Stormzy, Krept & Konan and many more. Widely recognised with taking Black British music and culture digital, Jamal’s ground-breaking online SBTV platform founded in 2006, created a visual home for artists not seen in the mainstream, enabling contemporary UK talent to come through.
Jamal’s leadership and generosity inspired a generation to believe in themselves and to pursue their goals. He was known for his philanthropic work around Mental Health and the funding of youth centres. His many accolades include being ambassador for the youth charity, The Princes Trust and being one of TIME Magazine’s “Next Generation Leaders.” In 2021 Jamal was appointed Entrepreneur in Residence at the University of Sussex and the same year the University of West London gave him an honorary degree
“Be the change you want to see in the world is one of my favourite quotes and something I’m trying to live by. If we can look at music and culture in the same way, people won’t be told not you can’t do that, they will chase bigger dreams and be free to express themselves how they want. The arts can be the most powerful vehicle for change and should be respected as such.” Jamal Edwards
“Jamal was one of the nicest, most down to earth and humble men I have met in the industry. He always gave me time when no one else would.” Adam Deacon, Bafta winning actor, Twitter
“RIP to the cultural trailblazer @jamaledwards. It is hard to comprehend we’ve lost too early such an important figure in Black British Culture…………. Your passion and contribution to music was undeniable.” Kanya King CBE, MOBO founder, Instagram
“We’ve lost a legend today. Jamal Edwards was an inspiration to so many, supporting artists and shaping culture through @SBTVonline. Sending our condolences to Jamal’s family and our community.” YouTube, Twitter