In a tragic turn of events, Nell Smith, a Canadian musician acclaimed for her collaborations with the Flaming Lips, has passed away at just 17 years of age.
The New York Post reported that Smith’s family confirmed her untimely death through social media, revealing it occurred on the preceding Saturday night, with sources suggesting a fatal car accident though no official confirmation was made.
Smith's family made the heartbreaking announcement of her passing on Monday via Instagram, describing her as feisty, talented, and unique. They shared the devastating news of her loss with a sense of deep grief and incomprehensibility.
Wayne Coyne, the Flaming Lips frontman, announced Smith's death during a concert in Portland, Oregon, further confirming reports of a car accident as her cause of passing. His announcement touched on the profound impact of music and the shared tragedy in the music community.
Adding to the sorrow, Simon Raymonde, owner of Bella Union, shared his shock and devastation over the sudden loss. Smith had been gearing up to release her debut album with Bella Union the following year, marking a significant milestone in her burgeoning career.
The teenage music prodigy first connected with Coyne at a Flaming Lips concert when she was only 12, laying the foundation for a creative partnership that brought forth the cover album Where the Viaduct Looms in 2021. This collaboration showcased Smith’s unique talent in reinterpreting songs by Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds.
Nick Cave himself applauded Smith's interpretation of "Girl in Amber," expressing admiration for her ability to instill a sense of dispassion in her music that was both beautiful and chilling. Cave’s praise underlined Smith’s remarkable understanding and connection with her craft.
Smith’s venture into music was marked by ambition and determination, starting a Kickstarter campaign to fund her debut album.
The campaign succeeded beyond her expectations, allowing her to raise over $17,000, surpassing her original goal and demonstrating substantial support from her fans.
The funds from her campaign were intended to support her dream of pursuing a music education in the UK, reflecting the artistic aspirations and vision she held for her future in music.
Smith's family conveyed their deep sorrow over the sudden loss of their daughter, noting the indelible mark she left on the world in her short life.
They requested privacy as they navigate through their grief, urging others to hold their loved ones close.
This emotional message from her family underscored the deep personal loss alongside the collective mourning felt by fans, peers, and collaborators who recognized Smith’s vibrant personality and musical talent.
In the wake of Smith’s tragic passing, Wayne Coyne's words during the Portland concert encapsulated a poignant reminder of the power of music and its capacity to unite and comfort in times of sorrow.
In a statement reflecting the shared grief within the music community, Simon Raymonde acknowledged the significant promise that Smith's burgeoning career represented. Her debut album, which she had been preparing with Jack and Lily Wolter of Penelope Isles, was highly anticipated.
The enthusiasm surrounding her upcoming album, slated for an early 2025 release, was testament to the impact she had already made despite her young age.
Her work displayed an artistic maturity and ingenuity that had the potential to define a new era in music.
While Smith's life was tragically brief, her contributions to music continue to inspire and resonate with fans and musicians alike, leaving a legacy that underscores her undoubted talent and the bright future she envisioned for herself.
Nell Smith’s sudden death has left a profound void in the music world, cutting short the life of a young artist full of promise. From her collaboration with the Flaming Lips to the anticipated release of her debut album, Smith's artistry and personal determination touched many.
Her family, collaborators, and fans together mourn the loss of a remarkable young woman whose brief career was marked by creative brilliance. As they grieve, they celebrate her contributions to music and her indelible impact on those around her.
