The music world is left in shock as a promising young talent's life is cut short unexpectedly.
According to Amomama, Nell Smith, a 17-year-old rising music star known for her collaboration with The Flaming Lips, passed away on Saturday night, October 5, in British Columbia.
The young artist was on the brink of releasing her first solo record, set to debut early next year through the independent label Bella Union.
Simon Raymonde, co-owner of Bella Union and record producer, took to Instagram to express his shock and devastation over Smith's sudden death. He shared a series of photos showcasing Smith's journey as a musician, including a touching image of her unwrapping her blue vinyl record "Where The Viaduct Looms" for the first time.
The Smith family also shared their own tribute on Instagram, posting a carousel of images depicting heartwarming memories of the young talent. In their emotional statement, they expressed their grief and gratitude for the experiences their daughter had in her short life:
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.
Born in 2007 in Leeds, U.K., Nell Smith showed an affinity for music from an early age. Her mother's plan to expose her to music in utero seemed to have a lasting impact, as Smith began attending music festivals with her family at just two years old.
At the age of 10, Smith attended a concert by The Flaming Lips, one of her favorite bands. This encounter would prove pivotal in her musical career. The following year, she managed to get a letter to the band, catching the attention of lead vocalist Wayne Coyne.
From that point on, Smith's musical journey accelerated rapidly. By age 11, she was performing live, writing her own songs, and collaborating with established artists.
The news of Smith's passing has sent ripples through the music industry. Producer Howard Redekopp, who had the opportunity to record Smith's vocals for her upcoming album, shared a heartfelt tribute on social media. He praised Smith as "a rare and extraordinary gift to this world."
Micah Nelson, son of music icon Willie Nelson, also posted his own tribute on Instagram. He shared images of himself and Smith jamming together with a caption:
RIP @nellsmithmusic 💔 A total tragedy. My heart goes out to Nell's family. She was such a bright light full of talent and sweetness and eyes wide at all the possibilities of life…. taken [sic] from us far too soon.
During a recent performance at Moda Center in Portland, Wayne Coyne of The Flaming Lips shared the news of Smith's passing with the audience. Visibly emotional, Coyne struggled to convey the tragic information, highlighting their collaboration from three years ago, "Where The Viaduct Looms."
Fans have reacted strongly to the news, expressing their shock and sorrow on social media platforms. Many praised Smith's talent, particularly her cover of "Red Right Hand," and lamented the loss of such a young and promising artist.
The passing of Nell Smith serves as a stark reminder of life's fragility and the impact one can make in a short time. Her musical legacy, though brief, will undoubtedly continue to inspire and touch the lives of many. The music industry and fans alike mourn the loss of a rising star whose potential will remain unfulfilled.
