ARTICLE AD BOX
![]()
Rapper Lil Jon's son, Nathan Smith, also known as DJ Young Slade, has tragically passed away at 27. Initially reported missing, his body was later found. Lil Jon shared heartfelt tributes, remembering his son's kindness and passion for music. The devastating news has prompted an outpouring of condolences from fans and fellow celebrities.
Trigger warning: This article contains mentions of death, reader's discretion is advised.Earlier on, rapper Lil Jon had announced that his son, Nathan Smith, had been missing from their home in Milton, Georgia, and that the search for him was already underway.
Recently, however, in a social media post, the rapper announced that his son had passed away at the age of 27.
Following the news, tributes have been pouring in for the young rapper, who has been active in the music scene just like his father for quite a few years now.
Lil Jon confirms news of his son’s demise
Three days after DJ Young Slade was reported missing, his body was found in a pond near his home. The reports were confirmed through a social media post made by the Milton Police Department on Tuesday.
Lil Jon also took to his social media to share a series of posts about his son’s passing.He initially shared an official statement, which read, “His mother and I are devastated. Nathan was the kindest human being you would ever meet. He was immensely caring, thoughtful, polite, passionate, and warmhearted — he loved his family and the friends in his life to the fullest.”He followed the post by sharing a video compilation of photos from Nathan Smith’s childhood.
In many of them, he was seen lying next to his father as the two slept on the bed. There were other photos of the two as well. He posted the video along with the emotional caption that read, “THIS HURTS SO BAD. (heartbroken emoji) I LOVE YOU SON.”This was followed by another social media post where he shared a screenshot of his son’s profile and song ‘Move Thru Fire’ from a popular music streaming site and added “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.”
Tributes pour in for the young rapper
As soon as the news broke out, fans, netizens, and fellow celebrities paid their respects to the young rapper and his family. Rapper Twista took to the comment section and posted his condolences, adding “Sending prayers of love and strength to you and your family, my brother,” while rapper Bun B also shared his thoughts and prayers for the family.
He wrote in his comment, “Man I’m so sorry for your loss. We are praying for and your family and loved ones in this moment for God’s grace and mercy to cover you.
” ‘21 Jump Street’ actress Holly Robinson Peete also reached out to Lil Jon and posted a series of heartbroken emojis under one of Lil Jon’s posts.Fans and netizens alike also reached out to the rapper to share their support. One comment read, “My deepest condolences to you and your family, Jon!! So sorry for your loss. Grief is love in its most profound form,” while another person shared, “I am so sorry to hear this. Sending you love and healing energy.”

English (US) ·