The music world is mourning today as legendary rapper and producer Lil Jon, born Jonathan Smith, confirmed the tragic passing of his 27-year-old son, Nathan Smith. Fans and the electronic music community knew him by his stage name, DJ Young Slade. Fans and other artists have expressed their condolences to the Smith family during this unfathomable time, as the news has rocked the industry.
The tragedy comes after a torturous three-day search that started early on Tuesday, February 3, 2026. Nathan was last seen leaving his Baldwin Drive home in Georgia under what the police said were unusual circumstances, according to official reports from the Milton Police Department. On Friday, February 6, investigators discovered a body in a pond in Mayfield Park, close to the Smith family home, bringing the search to a tragic conclusion.
Nathan Smith’s Search in Milton, Georgia
Local law enforcement and emergency response teams were immediately and heavily mobilized in response to Nathan Smith’s disappearance. The Milton Police Department issued a missing person alert on Tuesday after the first reports came in, stating that Nathan had left his house without his cell phone and on foot. He may have been “disoriented and in need of assistance,” according to the alert, which heightened community fears for his safety.
K-9 units, dive teams, and the Cherokee County Fire Department joined the search effort during the course of the following 72 hours. In the hopes of success, friends and neighbors joined in the endeavor. But as the days went by and the 27-year-old was nowhere to be found, the search turned its attention to the nearby bodies of water in Mayfield Park.
Divers found a body in a pond on Friday morning. The Milton Police Department said in a statement that they believe the person is Nathan Smith, even though official confirmation from the Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office is still pending. Although the case is still open and being investigated to ascertain the precise cause of death, authorities have also stated that, according to the preliminary investigation, there is no immediate indication of foul play.
Nicole Smith and Lil Jon Make a Tragic Declaration
Lil Jon and Nathan’s mother, Nicole Smith, broke their silence shortly after the news broke, expressing their pride and love for their son in a joint statement. Known for his exuberant demeanor and club-thumping songs like “Turn Down for What,” the rapper revealed a vulnerable side when he spoke about the “kindest human being you would ever meet.”
The family expressed their grief in the statement, characterizing Nathan as a deeply passionate, considerate, and caring young man. They expressed their pride in his numerous achievements and talked about how much he loved his family and friends. The Smith family also took a moment to express gratitude to the Milton Police Department and the public for the unwavering prayers and the tireless efforts put forth to find Nathan during his missing days.
Lil Jon shared a video compilation of Nathan’s life on social media, spanning from his early years to his adult career, adding a personal touch to the grieving process. Millions of followers were moved by the caption, “THIS HURTS SO BAD. I LOVE YOU SON,” which captured the unadulterated sorrow of a father who has lost his child.
Honoring DJ Young Slade’s Legacy
In addition to being the son of a legendary hip-hop artist, Nathan Smith had made a name for himself in the music business. He gained recognition as a gifted music producer, artist, and engineer under the moniker DJ Young Slade. Nathan, who graduated from New York University (NYU), blended his education with a lifelong love of music. He frequently appeared on MTV’s Family Legacy to talk about his experience growing up in the background of his father’s celebrity.
Nathan was well-known for his ability to combine different genres, using electronic and jazz music as inspiration to produce a distinctive sound. His development as an independent artist was demonstrated by his most recent single, “Feels,” which was released in early 2025. He frequently mentioned in interviews that he wanted to forge his own route and merit his position in the field by working hard rather than just using his last name, which many believe he accomplished.
He is remembered by his fellow DJs as a kind professional who was always eager to work with others and share his technical expertise. In addition to his family, a generation of young producers who admired his do-it-yourself work ethic and inventive spirit are also saddened by his passing.
Fans and the Hip-Hop Community Respond to the Disaster
The hip-hop community came together in support of the “King of Crunk” as word of Lil Jon’s son’s passing spread. On social media, well-known musicians like Twista and Bun B have posted encouraging messages. “Man, I’m so sorry for your loss,” said Bun B. “We are praying for you and your family,” echoed the thousands of people who are thinking of the Smith family.
Additionally, fans have shared their best memories of DJ Young Slade’s performances on social media sites like Instagram and X (formerly Twitter). Many have emphasized Nathan’s strong relationship with his father, who he frequently saw at industry gatherings or lending support to each other’s endeavors.
Discussions about the circumstances surrounding his disappearance have also been triggered by the tragedy, with many highlighting the significance of community support and mental health when someone is labeled as “disoriented.” The current emphasis is still on paying tribute to Nathan’s memory and helping those he left behind, even though the medical examiner’s report will eventually shed more light.
What the Investigation Will Do Next
As the family deals with this tragedy, the Milton Police Department has asked that the public and media respect their privacy. The Criminal Investigations Division will continue to review all investigative leads and await the Fulton County Medical Examiner’s final results, even though foul play is not currently suspected.
Nathan Smith’s legacy as a cherished son and a gifted musician will surely live on as the music industry deals with this news. For now, the emphasis is on a young life that ended far too soon and a grieving family.