Content warning: This article addresses the topic of death.
The music world was shaken to its core on October 7th with the tragic news of Nell Smith’s untimely passing at the age of 17. Nell, a rising star known for her collaborations with The Flaming Lips, left behind a legacy of universal artistry and enviable genius that had captivated audiences since the tender age of 14 when her music career began to flourish.
Simon Raymonde of Bella Union broke the devastating news of Nell’s death, just as the label was gearing up to release her highly anticipated solo album in 2025. In a heartfelt Instagram post, Raymonde expressed shock and grief over losing not just an artist but a dear friend whose talent was poised to take the music industry by storm.
Nell’s musical journey started at a young age and was nothing short of extraordinary. At 12 years old, she caught the eye of Wayne Coyne at a Flaming Lips concert where she showed up dressed as a parrot, sparking a friendship that would shape her career. Coyne, impressed by Nell’s raw talent, took her under his wing, guiding her in honing her musical skills and exploring new artistic horizons.
Despite facing challenges like the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Nell and Coyne embarked on a bold project: a cover album of Nick Cave songs titled “Where the Viaduct Looms” in 2021. The album, featuring Nell’s soulful interpretations of Cave’s music alongside The Flaming Lips, garnered critical acclaim, with both Coyne and Cave praising her ability to breathe new life into iconic songs.
Tragically, Nell’s promising career was cut short just as she was on the brink of solo stardom. Following a successful Kickstarter campaign for her debut solo album, where she surpassed her fundraising goal by a staggering amount, Nell’s life was tragically cut short in a car accident. Wayne Coyne, in a heartfelt tribute at a Portland concert, mourned the loss of not just a collaborator but a dear friend who had left an indelible mark on the music world.
Nell Smith’s legacy as a prodigious talent taken too soon serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the enduring impact of artistry that transcends generations. May her spirit continue to inspire future musicians to reach for the stars and create magic that resonates with audiences far and wide.
