Nell Smith, Collaborator with The Flaming Lips, Passes Away
Tragic Loss: Canadian Prodigy Nell Smith Passes Away at 17
In a heart-wrenching announcement that has left the music world reeling, Nell Smith, the esteemed Canadian teenage singer-songwriter and prodigy known for her remarkable collaborations with the Flaming Lips, has tragically passed away. Simon Raymonde of the legendary Cocteau Twins and founder of Bella Union Records revealed the news on Instagram today. Smith was only 17 years old and was in British Columbia at the time of her untimely death.
In a somber confirmation, Wayne Coyne, frontman of the Flaming Lips, shared the devastating news, describing Smith as "our dearest amazing beautiful young friend" who lost her life in a car accident late Saturday night. He urged followers to bear with him as the weight of the loss was too heavy to articulate. Coyne has been a pivotal figure in Smith’s career, fostering a bond that began when her family attended a Flaming Lips show in 2018, igniting a friendship based on mutual admiration and artistic collaboration.
Smith, originally from the UK, moved to Canada during her childhood and soon captured hearts with her prodigious talent. Her groundbreaking debut release, an album of covers titled Where The Viaduct Looms, featured collaboration with the Flaming Lips. It garnered glowing endorsements from none other than Nick Cave and his collaborator Warren Ellis, marking Smith as an artist on the rise long before her solo debut had even been released.
Raymonde’s post expressed profound grief at the sudden loss and addressed Smith as both a dear friend and a budding artist whose first solo record, recorded in Brighton with Penelope Isles’ Jack and Lily Wolter, was set for release in early 2025. The future was bright for Smith, whose youthful spirit and extraordinary talent marked her as one of the most promising voices in music today.
In light of the tragic circumstances, the Bella Union family has requested privacy as they collectively mourn and come to grips with the sudden loss of their beloved artist. “While we all try and come to terms with the awful news… we are unable to make any further comments at this time,” Raymonde concluded.
From a promising young talent to a vibrant spirit snuffed out too soon, Nell Smith’s legacy will undoubtedly remain etched in the hearts of those she inspired. As fans and fellow artists come together in sorrow, they celebrate the fleeting brilliance of a life that brought magic to the world—even if just for a short time. We will remember her not only for the music she created but for the light she brought into the lives of everyone around her.
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