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Wales Online
Wales Online
National
Nathan Bevan

Tributes paid to David R Edwards, singer of influential Welsh band Datblygu, who has died

The singer of one of Wales' most influential bands has died.

David R Edwards from post-punk outfit Datblygu passed away at his Carmarthen home over the weekend, aged 56.

Formed in Cardigan in the early '80s, the band - who have been credited with influencing a whole host of modern homegrown acts such as Super Furry Animals - blazed a trail on the UK music scene during the Thatcher era.

Read more: The lost punk history of the Newport nightclub destroyed by fire

Championed by the likes of Radio One DJ John Peel they were one of the first Welsh language bands to enjoy crossover success outside of their homeland.

Tributes to Edwards have been appearing on social media from the likes of Tim Burgess from The Charlatans and SFA's Gruff Rhys, who called Edwards "a gigantic figure."

Rhys Mwyn from Datblygu contemporaries Anhrefn also called him, "a visionary who composed masterpieces."

In a post on Twitter, David’s friend and bandmate Patricia Morgan said: "It's a huge pain for me to think that David is no longer with us.

"He was one of best friends you could ever have. A huge and generous personality; a bear of man."

"His writing touched people, to give succour, love, anger and humour."

Reports say Edwards had been struggling with health issues, including epilepsy and diabetes.

A familiar face at the Tangled Parrot record store in his hometown, its owner Matt Davies said of him, "I am devastated to hear of the passing of my dear friend David R Edwards of Datblygu.

"He was a true supporter of the shop in words and deeds.

"David was the main reason I decided to learn Welsh, just so I could more fully appreciate the poet behind the lyrics.

"He was the biggest influence on the modern Welsh music scene, it's a simple as that.

"But, while that legacy is secured, it's the man I'll miss - he was a friend to me first and foremost."

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