Jamal Edwards, a British YouTube star and founder of SBTV, has died at the age of 31.
His passing was confirmed by representatives of his media company to the BBC on Feb. 20, following reports on social media. The cause of death was not revealed.
Edwards founded the online platform in 2006, with an initial focus on urban music, and has helped launch the careers of many U.K. artists including Ed Sheeran, Jessie JRapper Dave.
Social media has seen tributes pour in to this innovator from around the globe. Rapper Lady Leshurr tweeted the news of his death was “heartbreaking” and credited Edwards for helping her career.
She stated, “He gave to me numerous opportunities to display my talent in London from Brum.” His name and brand must remain alive.
The organizers of the Mobo Awards shared they were “deeply saddened” by news of Edwards’ death.
“As the founder of @SBTVonline, his groundbreaking work & legacy in British music and culture will live on,” they tweeted. Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family.