Jamal Edwards' Cause of Death Revealed by Mother as World Mourns Music Mogul

The death of music entrepreneur Jamal Edwards MBE has prompted an outpouring of grief today. He was just 31 years old.

As an entrepreneur, author, director, DJ and founder of the online urban music platform SB.TV, Edwards was a pioneering figure in British rap and grime music.

Edwards' mother, Brenda Edwards, a presenter on U.K. panel show Loose Women, revealed that her son passed away from a "sudden short illness" on Sunday and shared her grief in a statement on ITV's Good Morning Britain this morning.

"It is with the deepest heartache that I can confirm that my beautiful son Jamal Edwards passed away yesterday morning after a sudden illness," Brenda Edwards said in her statement.

"Myself, his sister Tanisha and the rest of his family and friends are completely devastated. He was the center of our world."

She continued: "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."

Legions of fans, friends and well-wishers have shared tributes to later Edwards, whose death has sent shockwaves throughout the U.K. music industry.

"We lost one @jamaledwards You will be missed little brother," Idris Elba said in an Instagram tribute.

While singer Rita Ora added: "My first ever interview was with you. Jamal, our endless talks on music and the belief you had in me and so many of us before we even believed in ourselves. I'm devastated. No words can describe how grateful I am to have been in your presence. Thank you for all you ever showed me. My heart goes out to @brendaedwardsglobal and the whole family. RIP."

Chelsea F.C. tweeted: "We're deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Jamal Edwards. An inspiration to many, we're honoured that he was part of our Chelsea family. Our thoughts are with everyone who knew and loved him."

Journalist Nola Ojomu paid tribute to a "true trailblazer" tweeting: "Such heartbreaking news about Jamal Edwards. His passion and vision with SBTV helped to shape Black British culture forever. A true trailblazer. Glad he got his flowers while he was still here with us. Gone but never forgotten. What a legacy."

"Rest in Peace, Jamal Edwards," said comedian Munya Chawawa. "To think how many dreams were fulfilled and how much potential was discovered because of your platform and work. What an incredible legacy; thank you."

YouTuber Amelia Dimoldenberg added: "Jamal Edwards, one of the most generous people I have ever met. Someone who loved music and truly believed in all the joy it brings. Going above and beyond to connect people and bring ideas to life. You have shaped culture and changed the lives of others—never to be forgotten."