Bernard Edwards (October 31, 1952 – April 18, 1996) was an American bass player, singer, songwriter and record producer, both as a member of the funk/disco band Chic and on his own projects. With Chic (active 1976–1983), Edwards created era-defining hits such as "Dance, Dance, Dance", "Everybody Dance", "Le Freak", "I Want Your Love" and "Good Times".
In 1996 Nile Rodgers was named Superproducer of the Year in Japan, and was invited to perform there with Chic in April of that year.
Just before the concert at the Budokan Arena in Tokyo, Edwards fell ill, but despite Rodgers' insistence, refused to cancel the gig. He managed to perform but had to be helped at times. At one point, Edwards blacked out for a few seconds before resuming his playing.
After the concert, Edwards retired to his hotel room where he was later found dead by Rodgers. The cause of death was ruled to be pneumonia. Edwards' final performance was later issued as the album Live at the Budokan. Here's a edit from that concert when Bernard Edwards was introduced to the audience by fellow band member Nile Rodgers. Hours later that night Edwards died.
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