Singer Melvin Edmonds, from the Grammy-nominated ’90s R&B group After 7 and brother to Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds, died over the weekend. He was 65.
Melvin passed away Saturday (May 18) following a short illness, his son confirmed to the Indy Star. The group’s surviving members released a statement via social media expressing their sadness and grief over Melvin’s death.
“[We’re] deeply hurt/saddened by the unexpected/sudden loss of brother/friend/dad Melvin D. Edmonds,” read a tweet posted Monday (May 20). The statement went on to thank fans for the “tremendous outpouring” of love, support, and prayers. “[We’re] doing our best [to] cope. [Thank you for your] understanding in giving us [the] time we need during these difficult days.”
WeR deeply hurt/saddened by unexpected/sudden loss May 18 of brother/friend/dad Melvin D Edmonds age 65 Thks/appreciation 2ALL4 tremendous outpouring of love/support/prayers. WeR doing our best 2cope ThkU4 yr understanding in giving us th time we need during these difficult days pic.twitter.com/G8iC2xUdQu
— After 7 Music (@After7Music) May 21, 2019
After 7 was founded in 1987 by Melvin, his brother Kevon Edmonds, and classmate Keith Mitchell. The Indianapolis group released two consecutive platinum albums, the first of which was their self-titled debut album in 1989. The album was led by the single “Heat of the Moment,” which peaked in the Top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
The group released other hit singles including “Ready or Not,” “Can’t Stop,” and “Sara Smile.” Melvin left the group after their third album was released in 1995. He was replaced by his son, Jason.
After 7 released their most recent album, Timeless, in 2016. The project featured the single “If I,” produced by Babyface.
ncG1vNJzZmivp6x7t7XBnmWcp51ku6bD0micp6yVp8Gitc2mnKesX5aztbHRZm5mpZWhw6q6jJ6bpqeemcBusMSaq6FlZmmGcn2TaA%3D%3D