Jamal Edwards, aka SmokeyBarz (24 August 1990 – 20 February 2022) the founder of SBTV has passed away at the age of 31. He will forever be known for opening the door to so many talented artists and for selflessly promoting them on to bigger and better things.
Jamal was originally from Luton and moved to Acton, West London. When he was fifteen he was given a video camera as a Christmas present and started to film friends rapping and performing and uploaded them to his YouTube channel. Subsequently, he started SBTV in 2006 and was notably acclaimed for putting on Ed Sheeran and Jesse J before they went mainstream amongst a whole load of grime artists such as Skepta, AJ Tracey, Stormzy etc.
He was given an MBE for services to music in 2014. He worked tirelessly on a number of projects including being an ambassador for the Prince’s Trust and in 2013 publishing an ebook, Self Belief: The Vision: How To Be a Success on Your Own Terms. He also formed his own charity JE Delve investing in youth clubs and giving opportunities.
The day after his death his mother Brenda Edwards released the following statement:
It is with the deepest heartache that I confirm that my beautiful son Jamal Edwards passed away yesterday morning after a sudden illness. Myself, his sister Tanisha and the rest of his family and friends are completely devastated.
He was the centre of our world.
As we come to terms with his passing we ask for privacy to grieve this unimaginable loss. I would like to thank everyone for their messages of love and support.
Jamal was an inspiration to myself and so many. Our love for him lives on, his legacy lives on. Long live Jamal Edwards MBE, MBA, PHD.
Brenda Edwards