Nell Smith, Teenage Music Prodigy, Passes Away at 17

Tue, October 8, 2024

The music world is mourning the loss of Nell Smith, a talented young musician who collaborated with the Flaming Lips, after her sudden passing at the age of 17.

Biography:

Nell Smith was a Canadian-born musician who was born in the UK but grew up in Canada. She began her musical journey at a young age, learning to play the guitar and write her own songs. Smith’s passion for music was evident, and she quickly gained recognition for her talents.

Timeline of Her Life:

2018: At the age of 10 or 11, Smith attended a Flaming Lips concert with her parents, where she met the band’s frontman, Wayne Coyne. Coyne was impressed by Smith’s enthusiasm and kept in touch with her and her father.
2020: During the pandemic, Smith and the Flaming Lips collaborated on an album of Nick Cave covers, titled “Where the Viaduct Looms.” The album was released in November 2021, when Smith was just 14 years old.
2022: Smith launched a Kickstarter campaign to fund her debut album of original material. The campaign was successful, and Smith began working on her album.
2024: Smith signed with Bella Union, a label run by Cocteau Twins’ Simon Raymonde, and recorded her debut album in Brighton with Penelope Isles’ Jack and Lily Wolter.
October 7, 2024: Smith’s death was announced by Simon Raymonde on Instagram. The cause of death has not been officially confirmed, but according to Wayne Coyne, Smith died in a car accident.

Career Highlights:

Collaborated with the Flaming Lips on an album of Nick Cave covers, “Where the Viaduct Looms”.
Launched a successful Kickstarter campaign to fund her debut album.
Signed with Bella Union and recorded her debut album with Penelope Isles’ Jack and Lily Wolter.

Legacy:

Nell Smith’s passing is a tragic loss for the music world, but her legacy will live on through her music. Her debut album, which was set to be released in early 2025, will now be a poignant reminder of her talent and potential.