The late founder of SB.TV died on 20 February aged 31.
This morning (7 June), Jamal Edwards’ mother shared the news that he suffered cardiac arrhythmia as a result of taking recreational drugs. “Since finding out the news I’ve been in a state of shock, and I’m still trying to process it,” Brenda Edwards wrote, “but it’s so important to me that I do address it as no mother or any loved one should have to go through what Jamal’s sister, Tanisha, and I have been through since he passed.”
“We have to come to terms with what has happened,” she continued. “Jamal is proof that this can happen to anyone. These type of substances are extremely unpredictable, and we can only hope that this will encourage others to think wisely when faced with similar situations in the future.” Edwards also highlighted the importance having more open “conversation about the unpredictability of recreational drugs and the impact that they can have.”
“I’m so incredibly proud of everything he achieved over the course of his 31 years; I’m so proud to call him my son,” she added. “That’s why, with the recently launched Jamal Edwards Self Belief Trust, we will continue to not only honour his name but to help those in need, placing a special emphasis on the mental wellbeing of its service users.”
Concluding the statement, she wrote: “In Jamal’s own words – “the goal isn’t to live forever; the goal is to create something that will.” My beautiful son, you did that and then some.”
Read the full post below.
Rest In Peace my beautiful baby 💙💙💙 pic.twitter.com/SVxd6hJ5iN
— Brenda Edwards (@brenda_edwards) June 7, 2022
Jamal Edwards was recently announced as this year’s recipient of the Music Industry Trusts Award, making him the first person to receive the award posthumously.
Read: Jamal Edwards: 6 Artists on their SB.TV video shoots.
In the UK, Talk To Frank offer confidential advice and information about drugs and their helpline is 0300 123 6600. For the USA there’s the 24-hour Drug Helpline on 1 (844) 289 0879.