Lil Jon attends Big Game Kick-Off Event, hosted by Jay Glazer, Merging Vets And Players, at Academy LA on February 09, 2022 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Vivien Killilea/Getty Images)

Lil Jon said this week that his son, Nathan Smith, has died after authorities recovered a body from a pond in Georgia believed to be the 27-year-old. Smith, who performed under the name DJ Young Slade, had been reported missing days earlier. Officials said confirmation from the medical examiner is still pending. The news has drawn widespread attention and sympathy.

In a statement to TMZ, Lil Jon described the loss in personal terms. “I am profoundly heartbroken over the tragic loss of our son, Nathan Smith,” he said. “His mother, Nicole Smith, and I are utterly devastated. Nathan was truly one of the kindest individuals you could ever encounter—deeply caring, considerate, courteous, passionate, and compassionate. He loved his family and friends wholeheartedly.” The statement focused on Smith’s character rather than circumstance.

Smith was a producer, artist, and engineer who had recently graduated from New York University. His father said the family took pride in his work and his growth. “We loved Nathan with all our hearts and take immense pride in him. He was cherished and valued; in our final moments together, we found comfort in knowing that we communicated this love to him,” Lil Jon said. The remarks reflected a close relationship.

Law enforcement officials said Smith had been reported missing earlier in the week. The Cherokee County Fire Department located the body early Friday morning while assisting Milton Police. Authorities said there were no immediate signs of foul play. The case remains open as officials await final identification and a determination of cause of death.

A Son, an Artist, and a Life Remembered Beyond the Headlines

Police said Smith had left home on foot without his phone. Officers indicated he may have been disoriented and in need of help. Family and friends had raised concerns as the search continued. Few additional details have been released.

Smith had spoken previously about his relationship with his father and his own ambitions in music. In an interview with Big Facts Network, he reflected on growing up around fame. “It’s strange because I see him merely as Dad while everyone else sees him as Lil Jon,” he said. He credited his father’s work ethic as an influence.

As word of Smith’s death spread, tributes emerged from across the music community. Friends and collaborators described him as generous and creative. He is remembered not only through his family name but also for his own path and promise. His loss has left a quiet but lasting impact on those who knew him.