Ed Sheeran pays emotional tribute to 'brother' Jamal Edwards

Ed Sheeran has shared an emotional tribute to Jamal Edwards, the SBTV founder who died suddenly on 20 February.

Sheeran's career was partly launched by his appearances on SBTV and Edwards directed two recent music videos for the Bad Habits artist.

Read more: Ed Sheeran tries to 'rewild' the UK with tree planting

Taking to Instagram to pay tribute, Sheeran shared a picture of the two and called Edwards, who was only 31 when he died, his "brother".

Sheeran also wrote: "I haven’t posted anything coz I can’t find the words, I can’t reply coz I don’t know what to say."

He continued: "Jamal is my brother. His light shone so bright. He only used it to illuminate others and never asked for anything in return."

Sheeran went on to credit Edwards for the role he played in his life and career: "A stars light shines for millions of years after they go, and his will continue to light up every dark moment, we are all witnessing his power. I would not be here without him, professionally and personally."

He concluded by saying: "There will never be anything close to what he is, but I’m so grateful to have existed within his orbit. My brother, come on."

Edwards' death was confirmed by his mother Brenda, a Loose Women panellist, earlier this week. She wrote that he died "after a sudden illness".

Her statement went on to say: "Myself, his sister Tanisha and the rest of his family and friends are completely devastated. He was the centre of our world."

Read More: Jamal Edwards died after 'sudden illness', mum Brenda Edwards confirms

Edwards and SBTV are credited to giving a platform to emerging artists before they became well-known. He filmed Jessie J's first acoustic performance and also hosted the likes of Stormzy, Rita Ora and Dave before they were stars.

There have been tributes to Edwards from across the music industry from people such as Idris Elba, Lady Leshurr and AJ Tracey.

Edwards was also an ambassador for The Prince's Trust and Prince Charles paid tribute through a statement that said: "His work in music but also as an ambassador for a new generation, including his work for The Prince’s Trust, were an inspiration to so many."

Watch below: 'An inspiration to so many': Prince Charles honours the late Jamal Edwards