The story of Edwards' famous recording began in 1989 when Steve Case, CEO of Quantum Computer Services (which later became America Online —or AOL for short), wanted to add a human voice to the company's Quantum Link online service.

Back in 1989, Quantum Computer Services — which would rename itself AOL — hired Edwards to record a series of alerts for the online service, including “You’ve got mail!,” “Welcome,” “Files done” and “Goodbye.” He earned $200 for the gig.

The man who voiced America Online’s famous “You’ve got mail” greeting has died at age 74. Elwood Edwards died Tuesday at his home in New Bern, North Carolina.