February 07, 2026
The music world has been shaken by the tragic news that Lil Jon’s son, Nathan Smith, known professionally as DJ Young Slade — has been found dead after being reported missing for several days. The 27‑year‑old was last seen on 3 February after leaving his home in Milton, Georgia, under what police described as “unusual circumstances”. A large‑scale search followed, and on 6 February divers recovered a body from a pond in Mayfield Park, close to his residence. Authorities have said there is no indication of foul play, though official confirmation is pending from the Fulton County Medical Examiner.
Lil Jon pictured with his son DJ Young Slade, whose tragic death has shocked the music world. Image Credit: The Gaurdian
Nathan had been missing for just over three days before his body was discovered, leaving his family devastated. Lil Jon and his wife, Nicole Smith, described their son as warm‑hearted, caring, and immensely talented, paying tribute to his character and creativity. 
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DJ Young Slade was an NYU graduate and a rising producer carving out his own space in music, separate from his father’s crunk legacy. The circumstances surrounding his disappearance remain unclear, and while police have ruled out foul play, questions linger about what may have gone so terribly wrong in the hours after he left home.
Lil Jon — born Jonathan H. Smith, is widely known as a pioneer of crunk and as the frontman of Lil Jon & the East Side Boyz, the group behind hits such as “Get Low”, “What U Gon’ Do?”, and “Lovers & Friends”. His solo career also produced global anthems like “Turn Down for What”, cementing his influence across hip‑hop and EDM. Today, however, the chart‑topping star is not celebrating musical milestones but mourning an unimaginable loss. As tributes pour in from across the industry, fans and friends alike are left reflecting on a young life cut short and a family grappling with heartbreak.
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