Lil Jon Mourns Tragic Passing of Son Nathan 'DJ Young Slade' Smith

The Atlanta rapper shares emotional tributes to his late son, an aspiring music producer and engineer.

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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Lil Jon is grieving the loss of his son, Nathan 'DJ Young Slade' Smith, who was found dead in a Georgia pond after being reported missing. The rapper shared heartfelt photos and messages celebrating Nathan's talent and independence as an aspiring music producer and engineer.

Why it matters

The tragic passing of Lil Jon's son at a young age is a devastating loss for the family and highlights the pain of losing a loved one, especially a child. As a prominent figure in the music industry, Lil Jon's public mourning also shines a light on the challenges that come with balancing fame and family.

The details

Nathan, an NYU graduate, had been carving out his own path as a producer and engineer, with Lil Jon expressing pride in his son's ability to 'do it all on his own.' After being reported missing in Milton, Georgia, earlier this week, Nathan's body was tragically recovered from a pond near his residence on Friday, February 6. While the investigation remains active, police have stated that there is no immediate indication of foul play.

  • Nathan was reported missing in Milton, Georgia, earlier this week.
  • Nathan's body was recovered from a pond near his residence on Friday, February 6, 2026.

The players

Lil Jon

An Atlanta-based rapper and producer who is mourning the loss of his son, Nathan 'DJ Young Slade' Smith.

Nathan 'DJ Young Slade' Smith

Lil Jon's son, an aspiring music producer and engineer who tragically passed away at a young age.

Nicole Smith

Lil Jon's ex-wife and the mother of Nathan Smith.

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What they’re saying

“this hurts so bad, I love you son.”

— Lil Jon (Instagram)

“SLADE RELEASED THIS WHEN HE GRADUATED FROM COLLEGE. HE WAS SO HAPPY TO EXPRESS HIS ART N DO IT HIMSELF. I WAS SO PROUD OF HIM FOR DOING IT ALL ON HIS OWN.”

— Lil Jon (Instagram)

The takeaway

The loss of Lil Jon's son is a tragic reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing loved ones. While Nathan's passing is devastating, Lil Jon's public tributes highlight the deep bond they shared and the pride he felt in his son's independent pursuit of his musical dreams.