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Lil Jon mourns death of son Nathan Smith
The rapper says life will "never be the same" after the passing of his 27-year-old aspiring musician son.
Feb. 21, 2026 at 1:25am
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Lil Jon, the 55-year-old rapper whose real name is Jonathan Smith, has announced the tragic passing of his son Nathan Smith. Nathan, also known as DJ Young Slade, was found deceased in a pond near the family's home in Milton, Georgia on February 6, 2026. Lil Jon and his estranged wife Nicole Smith expressed their devastation over the loss of their "amazingly talented" son, who was a music producer, artist, and NYU graduate.
Why it matters
The death of a child is an unimaginable tragedy for any parent. Lil Jon's public mourning and tribute to his son sheds light on the immense grief and pain that comes with such a profound loss, especially for a prominent public figure. This story also highlights the importance of mental health awareness and support, as the circumstances around Nathan's passing remain under investigation.
The details
According to the Milton Police Department, officers responded to a report of a missing adult on February 3, 2026 and determined that Nathan Smith had left his residence under unusual circumstances. After several days of searching, Nathan's body was recovered from a pond near the family's home on February 6. The police stated there was no indication of foul play, but the investigation remains open pending the medical examiner's findings.
- On February 3, 2026, Nathan Smith was reported missing in Milton, Georgia.
- On February 6, 2026, Nathan Smith's body was recovered from a pond near the family's home.
The players
Lil Jon
A 55-year-old rapper whose real name is Jonathan Smith, and the father of Nathan Smith.
Nathan Smith
Lil Jon's 27-year-old son, also known as DJ Young Slade, who was an aspiring musician and NYU graduate.
Nicole Smith
Lil Jon's estranged wife and the mother of Nathan Smith.
Milton Police Department
The law enforcement agency that investigated Nathan Smith's disappearance and death.
What they’re saying
“In this holy month, I'm asking for extra du'a for him and for our family. Please pray that Allah grants him Jannah and grants us sabr, mercy, and strength. Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji'un.”
— Lil Jon, Rapper
“I love you, son. Life will never be the same without you. Allah, give me strength.”
— Lil Jon, Rapper
“Nathan was the kindest human being you would ever meet. He was immensely caring, thoughtful, polite, passionate, and warm-hearted — he loved his family and the friends in his life to the fullest. He was an amazingly talented young man; a music producer, an artist and engineer, and graduate of NYU.”
— Lil Jon, Rapper
What’s next
The Milton Police Department stated the investigation into Nathan Smith's death remains open and active, pending the official cause and manner of death determination by the Fulton County Medical Examiner.
The takeaway
The tragic loss of Lil Jon's son Nathan highlights the devastating impact of mental health struggles and the importance of providing support and resources for those in need. This story serves as a somber reminder to cherish our loved ones and to be there for one another during the most difficult of times.
