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Today in Tha Wire we remember the man behind the velvet voice, Melvin Edmonds of the legendary R&B group After 7. Eldest brother of the iconic singer/songwriter/producer, Kenneth 'Babyface' Edmonds, reportedly passed due to a longtime illness on Saturday May 19, 2019. He was 65. The cause of death has not been announced, but there had been reports of the soulful singer battling various health issues over the last several years.

According to CNN Melvin suffered a stroke in 2011 and was forced to leave the group temporarily. Melvin was the second oldest of six brothers and similar to the Jackson's the musical talent runs deep among the Edmonds. His son, Jason Edmonds, was a perfect fit for the group and filled-in while his dad recovered. In 2015 Melvin rejoined his group, now a quartet, just in time to release their comeback LP Timeless.

Essence reported the sad news of Melvin's passing was confirmed by the group on Monday May 20th via a Facebook with a post that read, "We the group After 7 are deeply hurt and saddened by the unexpected, sudden loss of our brother, friend & Jason's father, Melvin D." His death was also confirmed in the stars hometown Indianapolis by his son Melvin Jr. 

After 7 arrived on the music seen in 1988 and coexisted of Melvin, his younger brother Kevon Edmonds and their lifelong friend Keith Mitchell. From the word go, they stood out releasing beautiful ballads and infectious dance tracks that continue to captivate R&B lovers around the globe. Melvin's legacy will live on through Kevon, Keith and Jason as they continue to perform for the masses as one of the greatest groups of all time.

 

 

Melvin Edmonds, gone at age 65. Rest in power, our deepest condolences to his family and friends.

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