The music world is mourning the loss of Canadian prodigy Nell Smith, who tragically passed away at just 17 years old. The heartbreaking news of her death was confirmed by her family in a statement shared on social media, revealing that Smith died on Saturday, October 5.
Smith’s family took to Instagram to announce the devastating news, expressing their shock and grief. “It pains us so much to say that our feisty, talented, unique, beautiful daughter was cruelly taken from us on Saturday night,” they wrote. The family, overwhelmed by the loss, shared how much potential Smith had and the immense mark she left on the world in her short 17 years. “She had so much more to experience and to give this world but we are grateful that she got to experience so very much in her 17 years. She has left an indelible mark on the world and an unfillable chasm in our hearts.”
The statement from her parents, Jude and Rachel, along with siblings Jed and Ike, concluded with a poignant request: “Hold your kids extra tight tonight and for now please leave us to work through things. We will shout when we need you.”
Rising Star Gone Too Soon
Nell Smith was recognized as a musical talent well beyond her years. She had already made waves in the industry by collaborating with The Flaming Lips on their cover album Where The Viaduct Looms. Her unique style and promising voice had caught the attention of fans and musicians alike, and she was set to release her first solo album through the renowned record label Bella Union.
Simon Raymonde, the owner of Bella Union, paid tribute to the young artist in a heartfelt message on the label’s Instagram page. “Our hearts are so broken after hearing about the tragic passing of Nell,” Raymonde wrote. “She’ll always be remembered for her sweetness, intelligence, and wonderful talent. It’s hard to put into words but we extend all our love to her family and friends.”
Smith was known not only for her musical prowess but also for her radiant personality. Her potential in the music industry had just begun to flourish, and her contributions to Where The Viaduct Looms demonstrated the depth of her talent.
A Tragic Loss to the Music Community
Flaming Lips frontman Wayne Coyne also paid tribute to Smith during a concert in Portland, Oregon, just one day after her death. Coyne, visibly emotional, informed the audience of the devastating news, sharing how Smith had tragically died in a car accident the night before. “We have a Canadian friend, her name is Nell. … We got some very sad messages today that she was killed in a car accident last night and we’re reminded once again of the power of music,” Coyne said.
The music community has been shaken by the loss of such a young, promising artist. Nell Smith’s collaborations with Coyne and The Flaming Lips gave fans a glimpse of what could have been a long and successful career. She had a creative spirit that inspired those around her, and her work with the band highlighted her natural ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level.
Remembering Nell Smith
As of now, Smith’s family has not confirmed the exact cause of her death. While the world waits for more details, the outpouring of love and support for her family has been overwhelming. Social media has been flooded with tributes from fans, fellow musicians, and those who were touched by her music.
Nell Smith’s talent was undeniable, and her passion for music was evident to all who knew her. Her tragic passing leaves a void in the lives of those who loved her, but her legacy will live on through her work. As Simon Raymonde expressed, she will be remembered for “her sweetness, intelligence, and wonderful talent.”
Our thoughts and condolences go out to her family, friends, and the music community as they navigate this heartbreaking loss.
