By Patrice Nkrumah, Chicago Crusader
Boyse Edwards, who for years hosted a local cable talk show that talked about issues in the Black community, passed away on May 20 at his home in the Austin community, according to his family.
Edwards, 67, was always proud of being from the West Side of the city and worked tirelessly to promote a part of the city that is often forgotten. He co-hosted a variety of cable television talk shows where he and guests would debate the problems and solutions in the community. But Edwards got a lot of pleasure from touting the success stories in the community, which he believed did not get enough air time on local news broadcasts.
Edwards was remembered during funeral services on May 28th at Metropolitan Missionary Baptist Church. Founder of the musical group Gentlemen of Leisure back in the 70’s, Edwards was a talented singer and musician, in addition to being a community activist. His funeral was filled with musical tributes performed by local musicians, which included a powerful rendition of Earth Wind & Fire’s “September.”
Edwards was considered a true community activist who was not afraid to call out Black political leaders when they failed to represent the people who elected them. He was also critical of local media outlets and how they covered the community. Fellow activists Mark Allen described Edwards as a “legendary community activist and great communicator.” Edwards was respected for his versatility.
“Boyse was very smart and very interesting. He did TV and radio and was good in both platforms,” said his CAN TV colleague Frank Avila.
Edwards often used his show to promote African American journalist at Black newspapers who were telling the story of the community from the front line. Crusader journalists often appeared on his television and radio shows to help promote published stories and to talk about current events in the community.
“I appeared on both his television and radio shows and they were always a great time with great conversations,” said Crusader contributing writer J. Coyden Palmer. “Boyse was a warm brotha and he wanted the facts on a story and was not afraid to question the motives of many people in our community. He loved Chicago, especially the Black community and he just wanted the city and community to be better. He knew when to be serious, but he was also hilarious when speaking on many of the serious topics.”
A graduate of Crane High School, Edwards was often very happy and saw it as his duty to help young people starting out in the radio or TV industry. He would bring in interns to work all throughout the year and many went on to start their careers after learning from him.
Many believe Edwards’ commitment to giving back came from how he grew up. He learned musical lessons from James “Major” Adams, who established the Henry Horner Boys & Girls Club. When Edwards was leading his band, he would often ring cowbells, bang on the tambourine, all while wearing his patented turban in a tuxedo. And his love for music was the focus of his homegoing celebration.
Maestro Boyse Edwards is survived by sons, Jawann Deloney, Reginald Bradley and Fontain Lykes; sisters, Anastasia, Nedra, Sandra and Brenda, and five grandchildren.
