Nell Smith, a talented young musician whose career was just beginning to flourish, tragically passed away at the age of 17 on October 5th. Best known for her collaboration with the Flaming Lips, Nell’s sudden death has left her family and fans in shock. In a heartfelt Instagram tribute posted on October 7th, her family shared, “It pains us so much to say that our feisty, talented, unique, beautiful daughter was cruelly taken from us on Saturday night. We are reeling from the news and don’t know what to do or say.”
They continued to express their grief, stating, “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. Hold your kids extra tight tonight, and for now, please leave us to work through things. We will shout when we need you.”
Nell was set to release her debut solo album in early 2025, following the success of her 2021 album of Nick Cave covers with the Flaming Lips, titled Where the Viaduct Looms. Although the cause of her death was not initially disclosed, Flaming Lips frontman Wayne Coyne addressed the audience during a concert in Portland, Oregon, on October 6th, revealing through tears, “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.”
In 2023, Nell shared her passion for music with fans, discussing her journey while seeking support for her Kickstarter campaign to record her solo album. She expressed, “Music has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember, and it’s really helped me with my mental health at times. Usually, that was just putting on headphones and listening to music. Then I picked up a guitar and realized I could play other people’s songs. When I was 11, I wrote my own songs and realized that was a really great way for me to articulate my feelings and emotions through music and singing.”
Nell Smith’s untimely passing is a profound loss to the music community, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to resonate with her fans and loved ones.
