Melvin Edmonds was a founding member of the R&B group After 7, which rose to fame in the 1990s with hits like “Can’t Stop”, “Ready or Not” and “Heat of the Moment”. He was also the older brother of the legendary singer and producer Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds. Melvin Edmonds died on May 18, 2019, at the age of 65, leaving behind a musical legacy and a grieving family. But what was the cause of his death? Here are some facts you need to know.
Melvin Edmonds’ Health Issues
According to CNN, Melvin Edmonds battled health issues in recent years, including a stroke in 2011 that left him paralyzed on one side of his body. He had to take a short break from music to recover, but he was able to rejoin the group in 2016 for their comeback album, “Timeless”. The album featured hits such as “Runnin’ Out”, “I Want You” and “Let Me Know”.
However, his health problems did not end there. According to Essence, Melvin Edmonds also struggled with drug addiction and depression, which affected his personal and professional life. His brother Kevon Edmonds revealed in an interview with The Indianapolis Star that Melvin had an addictive personality and used drugs to cope with the stresses of life.
Melvin Edmonds’ Death
Melvin Edmonds’ death was sudden and unexpected. His son, who is also named Melvin, confirmed his father’s passing on Facebook, saying that he died after a brief illness. The exact cause of death has not been revealed, but it is speculated that it was related to his previous stroke or other health complications.
His former bandmate Keith Mitchell also posted a tribute on the group’s Facebook page, saying that Melvin was the “Soul” of After 7 and that his vocal sound can never be erased or duplicated. He added that Melvin’s love for audiences and fans everywhere who supported their music was what drove him on stage and in life.
Melvin Edmonds’ Legacy
Melvin Edmonds left behind a legacy of music and family. He was one of six brothers who grew up in Indianapolis and pursued their passion for music. His younger brother Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds became one of the most successful singers and producers in the industry, winning 11 Grammy Awards and working with artists like Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey and Toni Braxton.
Melvin Edmonds also had four children: Melvin Jr., Chris, Jason and Courtney. His son Jason followed his father’s footsteps and joined After 7 as a replacement for Melvin Sr. in 2015. Jason continues to perform with the group alongside Kevon Edmonds and Keith Mitchell.
Melvin Edmonds’ music will live on in the hearts of his fans and family. He was nominated for a Grammy Award in 1990 for the song “Can’t Stop” and won an NAACP Image Award for best new male artist or group that year. He also appeared in movies like Soul Food (1997) and The Five Heartbeats (1991). He will be remembered as a talented singer, a loving father and a soulful brother.
