Remembering Oneil Edwards of Voicemail (dancehall group)

by DRW
(Jamaica)

Dancehall reggae singer, dancer O'Neil Jason Charles Edwards was born on May 8, 1974 in Kingston, Jamaica.

Oneil was the son of artiste producer Rupee Edwards.

In 1999 he joined with Jerome "Craig" Jackson, Kevin Blair, Robert Manning and Leonardo Grant to form the group known as Voicemail.

One hit after the other, with popularity rising, Voicemail became highly sought after on the dancehall scene. The group became a trio - Craig, Kevin and O’Neil.

Although O’Neil’s deep and distinct baritone was sure to provoke loud screams, the trio was known for their seamlessly interlaced voices. Their mantra was one sound, one distinctive look, a group that moved in unison and sang in harmony.

This complete image, professional demeanour and focused outlook did not happen by accident. The standards were maintained through O’Neil’s management style.

It was he who administered the group’s business. While the other’s trained, O’Neil toiled. He made the deals and confirmed the bookings, planned the tours, coordinated the recordings and thought through the promotions.

He was the foundation upon which Voicemail was built. The life of a performing artiste is a challenging one. No one knows this more than O’Neil’s life partner, Ingrid Smalling. With every late night, early morning and long, gruelling hours, Ingrid provided the strength and support that O’Neil needed to make it through the labyrinth that the music industry can be.

Their daughter, Nehalis Nastacia Edwards provided her father with a month of joy, born five weeks before he passed. ‘Fun and gregarious’, a man of style, that is how O’Neil Edwards’ friends and neighbours from the Duhaney Park community describe him. Always “Ready to Party”, always ready to dance.

HIS PASSING

On May 5, 2010 Oneil Edwards was returning home to his house in Duhaney Park early in the morning when he was robbed and shot at his gate.

Reports are that he received (5) shots to his chest, side and head.

After doing a numbr of surgeries he still remain unconcious until May 26, 2010 when he died.

Edward's (From Voicemail) funeral was held on Saturday June 4, 2010, 10:am at "Church On The Rock" Kingston St Andrew.

Oneil leave all grieving the lost of a great entertainter.

He will always be in our hearts.