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Visionary music lawyer Richard Antwi died of natural causes

RESPECTED: Richard Antwi

A MUCH-LOVED entertainment music lawyer who died suddenly in February, aged 38, died of natural causes, it has been reported.

Richard Antwi, who has been credited with launching the careers of popular UK acts, including Wretch 32 and Lethal Bizzle, died of Sudden Death Syndrome, according to Buzzfeed

“Antwi died on 11 February, 2016 at 11.15pm due to sudden adult death syndrome, a spokesperson for North London coroner’s court confirmed,” the publication wrote.

Following news of his passing, names including rappers Wretch 32, 'Godfather of Grime' Wiley and singer Estelle paid respect on social media, many likening Antwi to a 'big brother'.

"I don't think I've cried in long time," Lethal Bizzle wrote in a touching Instagram the day after his passing. "Thank you for everything you done for me, Richard. You believed in me when no one else did. You were a big part in changing my life around. I dunno where I'd be if Statik didn't introduce us. You're a very special person. The music industry is forever in your debt, you'll be truly missed. Thank u Rich. May your soul rest in peace."

Dumi Oburota, who manages the career of UK rapper Tinie Tempah, wrote: "Today is a sad, sad day. One of our brightest, hardest, articulate , wise, warm and calm leaders of our culture has left us. Richard, you have always - from the jump - been someone I looked up to [and] bounced ideas off. Always the one to call and say well done! Like a big brother.

He added: "There are not many people like you in this world and that's why you are truly going to be missed. My sincere condolences to you and your family. You made us PROUD brother. May your soul rest in perfect peace."

Antwi, an Oxford University graduate, had been praised for his eye for talent spotting and how valiantly he defended his clients.

In his own profile, Antwi described himself as a “passionate about music and technology”.

As founder at Full + Bless Management, Antwi specialised in managing talent and ensuring artists were aware of their rights in the music industry.

According to Buzzfeed, Antwi also spent time as a parliamentary researcher Labour peer Paul Boateng.

In a joint venture with EMI Music Publishing and friend BBC 1xtra DJ Twin B, Antwi established record label - Levels Entertainment from which north London rapper Wretch 32 released his second album Black and White album.

Wretch wrote of Richard's death: "King Richard Antwi…The team has lost its big brother our senior our mentor. Death always surprises us & I’m sitting here tryna smile through the tearsas you’ve brought nothing but joy to my life.

"Richard & Twin gave me and Z our 1st record deal. You took us off the street. There was never a dull moment un your presence you told me to be the best to be ambitious & since 2011 we’ve sold ambitious numbers. A true leader and a gentleman thank you for being you. Thank you love you always bro."

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