Nell Smith, Flaming Lips Collaborator and Music Prodigy, Dead at 17

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As a music enthusiast who has been following the rise of young talents in the industry, I am deeply saddened by the untimely demise of Nell Smith. At just 17 years old, she had already made a significant impact with her collaboration with The Flaming Lips and was set to release her debut solo album next year.

Friends and family are mourning the loss of a young musical prodigy.

17-year-old Nell Smith, famed for her collaborations with The Flaming Lips, tragically passed away unexpectedly on October 5th.

It deeply hurts us to announce that our spirited, gifted, extraordinary, stunning daughter was tragically taken away from us on Saturday night,” Nell’s family stated in a heartfelt Instagram tribute post on October 7. “We are struggling to come to terms with this news and are at a loss for words.

In early 2025, Nell was scheduled to drop her first solo album following the release of an album featuring covers of Nick Cave’s songs alongside The Flaming Lips in 2021, which they titled “Where the Viaduct Looms“.

In her 17 years, she managed to experience and offer so much more than most; sadly, she’s no longer with us. However, the impact she made on this world is indelible, while the void in our hearts cannot be filled. Tonight, hug your children a little tighter for me, and for now, give us some space as we navigate through our grief. We will reach out when we need you. Love, Jude, Rachel, Jed, and Ike.

During their concert in Portland, Oregon on October 6th, Flaming Lips frontman Wayne Coyne revealed to the audience that they had received tragic news about someone’s death in a car accident. He shared this information while visibly emotional and emphasized the healing power of music.

Simone Raymonde, proprietor of the record company Bella Union, posted another heartfelt tribute to the departed vocalist, Nell.

Simone expressed deep sorrow upon learning about the unexpected and heartbreaking death of our cherished artist, Nell Smith, this past weekend in British Columbia. At only 17 years old, she was gearing up for her first solo album release with Bella Union early next year.

Simone stated, “As we’re all still processing the sad news, and keeping in mind the sorrow of Nell’s loved ones, I’m sorry but I can’t provide any additional comments right now.

2023 saw Nell sharing with her followers the passion she holds for music, along with a request for donations towards her Kickstarter campaign to produce her own solo album.

For as far back as I can recall, music has been an integral part of my existence. Typically, it would be a matter of donning headphones and immersing myself in the tunes. However, when I learned to play the guitar, I discovered that I could perform others’ compositions. At age 11, I penned my own songs and found that this was an exceptionally effective means for me to express my feelings and emotions.

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2024-10-08 13:47