DJ and music producer Jamal Edwards died from a heart attack after taking recreational drugs, his mother confirmed on Tuesday as she called for “more conversation” about the use of illegal substances.
Edwards was the founder of SBTV, an online urban music platform which helped launch the careers of artists like Dave, Ed Sheeran, Jessie J and Skepta.
The DJ and rapper died at the age of 31 from a “sudden illness” at his home in Acton in February.
In a statement on Tuesday, his mother Brenda, a Loose Women panellist, said: “Since I last spoke, I have sadly learned that the cause of Jamal’s devastating passing was due to cardiac arrythmia caused by having taken recreational drugs and I wanted to address this myself to everyone who loved, admired and respected my son.”
She admitted that she is in a “state of shock” as she attempts to “process” the news.
She added: “Jamal had the world at his fingertips – a zest for life and he was unwittingly taken away far too soon.
“Yet we have to come to terms with what happened, and Jamal is proof that this can happen to anyone.
“These types 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.
“His passing has shown that any one bad decision on any one occasion can lead to devastating consequences.’
It comes as an inquest at West London Coroners Court heard he died an “unnatural death” after returning home late after work and becoming “agitated”.
Coroner Catherine Wood said: "He came home late after work became increasing agitated and was deteriorating despite treatment and died from a cardiac arrest.”
“I have reason to suspect the death is an unnatural death,” she added.
His mother Brenda said her son Jamal was “the centre of our world” as she paid tribute to him following his death.
She thanked everyone for “messages of love and support” following the sudden death of her son.
He was regarded as one of the most influential figures in British music and will be this year’s recipient of the Music Industry Trusts Award.
