It’s a sad, sad day for the British music industry. We’ve lost one of our own, one of our mentors, one of our defenders, but more importantly, we have lost one of our brothers.
It’s with sad regrets that I woke up this morning to the news that top music lawyer and visionary Richard Antwi, 38 years old, had reportedly passed away yesterday (February 11).
Social media was quick to praise the man many likened to a big brother, with Wretch 32, Wiley, Lethal Bizzle and Estelle amongst many others leading the way with heart-warming tributes.
Antwi was responsible with launching the careers of many artists that have now gone on to achieve major chart success, including Lethal Bizzle, Mr Hudson and Melissa Steel.
“I don’t think I’ve cried in a long time, 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. May your soul rest in peace”, Lethal B wrote in a very moving Instagram post this morning.
Dumi Oburota from Disturbing London, who manages Tinie Tempah, also led the tributes by adding; “Today is a sad, sad day. One of 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!”
“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.” he also added.
Richard Antwi, who was an Oxford graduate, always had a very special eye for talent and was known for how valiantly he defended his clients.
He founded Full + Bless Management, which specialises in managing talent and ensuring artists were aware of their rights in the music industry.
Richard also spent time as a parliamentary researcher for Paul Boateng who has since become a Labour peer.
In a joint venture with friend and EMI publishing, BBC 1Xtra DJ, Twin B, Richard Antwi founded Levels Entertainment, a record label on which Wretch 32 released his second album ‘Black And White’.
North London rapper Wretch 32 wrote about Richard’s death; “King Richard Antwi… The team has lost it’s big brother our senior our mentor. Death always surprises us & I’m sitting here tryna smile through tears as you’ve brought nothing but joy to my life.”
“Richard & Twin gave me and Z our 1st record deal. You took us off the streets. There was never a dull moment in your presence and you told me to be the best to be ambitious and since 2011 we’ve sold ambitious numbers. A true leader and a gentleman thank you for being you. Thank you love you always bro.”
More and more tributes have poured in all over social media for a man who was loved and respected by all. He changed lives positively and inspired many people into achieving their goals within their musical careers. Richard cared about the rights of his clients and defended them to the tilt.
A hero has passed away, but his legacy is so strong that he will continue to inspire many artists for years to come.
The whole team here at GRM Daily would like to extend their love and prayers to Richard’s family and friends and also give our most sincere condolences.
Rise In Paradise Richard Antwi, you will be sorely missed.