People that you love
Beautiful daughter
Nell Smith, a 17-year-old artist recognized for her work with The Flaming Lips, has passed away in a car crash, as verified by HollywoodUnlocked.com. “It pains us so much to say that our feisty, talented, unique, beautiful daughter was cruelly taken from us on Saturday night,” Smith’s family stated.
Short life
Her family confirmed the news on Instagram, expressing their grief and noting the impact Smith had in her short life. “We are reeling from the news and don’t know what to do or say,” Smith’s family wrote.
Hold your kids extra tight
“Hold your kids extra tight tonight and for now please leave us to work through things. We will shout when we need you. Jude, Rachel, Jed and Ike,” Smith’s family added. “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.”
Indelible mark
“She has left an indelible mark on the word and an unfillable chasm in our hearts,” her family wrote.
Praising her talent
Wayne Coyne, the frontman of The Flaming Lips, mourned her loss during a concert, recalling their work together and praising her talent.
Lead singer
“We have a very sad announcement to make tonight,” The Flaming Lips’ lead singer Wayne Coyne said. “We have a Canadian friend, her name is Nell. We recorded an amazing album with her three years ago, an album full of songs by Nick Cave.”
People that you love
“We have some very sad messages today — she was killed in a car accident last night,” Coyne said. “We are reminded once again of the power of music and how encouraging it can be to be around people that you love.”
Debut solo album
Smith had gained recognition for her album of Nick Cave covers and was preparing to release her debut solo album in 2025.
Remarkable understanding
“Nell shows a remarkable understanding of the song, a sense of dispassion that is both beautiful and chilling,” Nick Cave wrote. “I just love it. I’m a fan.”