The music world lost one of its brightest promises this weekend. Nell Smith, the 17-year-old Canadian who collaborated with the renowned band The Flaming Lips, died in a terrible car accident in British Columbia.
+ Watch some videos of Nell Smith posted on social media
Known for her early musical talent and for a collaborative project that captured the world’s attention, Nell was about to release her first solo album in 2025. The devastating news was confirmed by Simon Raymonde, member of the band Cocteau Twins and founder of the Bella Union label, who had welcomed Nell as part of his artistic family.
Raymonde expressed his deep sadness on social media: “We are all shocked and devastated to learn of the sudden and tragic passing of our artist and dear friend Nell Smith over the weekend in British Columbia.” He also spoke about the young artist’s promising future: “Nell was only 17 and was preparing for the release of her first solo album in early 2025, produced in Brighton with Jack and Lily Wolter of the band Penelope Isles.”
Nell’s family also issued a heartfelt statement: “It pains us deeply to say that our talented, unique, and beautiful daughter was cruelly taken from us on Saturday night.” In deep mourning, they added: “She had so much more to experience and offer the world, but we are grateful for everything she lived in those 17 years.”
Nell gained notoriety at a young age, at 14, when she released a covers album of Nick Cave, which caught the attention of the band The Flaming Lips. Wayne Coyne, the band’s lead singer, paid a heartfelt tribute to the young artist during a show in Poland, visibly moved by the loss of such a talented musician. Nell’s collaborative work with The Flaming Lips included contributions to several tracks on their album “Where The Viaduct Looms,” a project that showcased her incredible ability to reinvent music.
Nell’s death leaves an irreplaceable void in the world of music and in the hearts of her family, friends, and fans. The impact she made in such a short time, however, will be remembered forever.
Photos and videos: Instagram @nellsmithmusic. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.