Nell Smith, the talented Canadian singer-songwriter known for her collaboration with The Flaming Lips, has tragically passed away at the age of 17. Her family announced her death on October 5 through a heartfelt statement posted on Instagram, expressing their profound grief and sorrow over losing their “feisty, talented, unique, beautiful daughter.”
The family expressed their shock, stating, “We are reeling from the news and don’t know what to do or say. 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. She has left an indelible mark on the world and an unfillable chasm in our hearts.” They also urged everyone to cherish their loved ones during this difficult time.
During a concert on October 6, Flaming Lips frontman Wayne Coyne conveyed the sad news to fans, revealing that Nell had died in a car accident. Before performing “Everything Has Changed,” Coyne shared, “We have a Canadian friend, her name is Nell. We recorded an amazing album with her three years ago, and we have some very sad messages today—she was killed in a car accident last night.”
Nell was set to release her debut solo album in 2025, following a successful Kickstarter campaign. Simon Raymonde, head of her label Bella Union, expressed his devastation on Instagram, saying, “We are all shocked and devastated to hear of the sudden and tragic passing of our artist and dear friend Nell Smith.”
Nell’s remarkable journey with The Flaming Lips began in 2018, when she attended one of their concerts in a parrot costume, catching Coyne’s eye. Their friendship grew, and Coyne encouraged her musical aspirations, leading to a collaboration that gained momentum during the pandemic. The result was the 2021 album “Where the Viaduct Looms,” featuring her unique covers of Nick Cave songs, which earned acclaim from both Coyne and Cave himself.
Nell’s music career, though brief, was marked by creativity and passion, making a significant impact on the indie music scene. Her untimely passing comes alongside another troubling situation for The Flaming Lips, as band member Steven Drozd is currently dealing with the disappearance of his 16-year-old daughter, Charlotte “Bowie” Drozd. Bowie has been missing since October 7, with family members urging anyone with information to contact the Seattle Police Department.