Nell Smith, rising music star, dies in car accident ahead of debut album release

In a heartbreaking turn of events, rising Canadian songstress Nell Smith has tragically died in a car crash.

Aged just 17, the promising musician was on track to drop her first album next year, following her noted work with The Flaming Lips.

Her death was confirmed by none other than Cocteau Twins Simon Raymonde over the last weekend. His record label had taken the budding star under its wing, as she was keenly working towards putting out her solo debut in early 2025.

Raymonde expressed his grief online, stating: "We are all shocked and devastated to hear of the sudden and tragic passing of our artist and dear friend Nell Smith, over the weekend in British Columbia."

He further commemorated her, commenting: "Nell was just 17 and was preparing for the release of her first solo record in early 2025 on Bella Union, made in Brighton with Penelope Isles' Jack and Lily Wolter", reports .

Adding to the wave of tributes, Nell's bereaved family released a stirring statement confirming the dire news: "It pains us so much to say that our feisty, talented, unique, beautiful daughter was cruelly taken from us on Saturday night."

The statement painfully continued: "We are reeling from the news and don't know what to do or say. She had so much more to experience and to give to this world but we are grateful that she got to experience so very much in her 17 years."

To conclude, they touched upon their profound loss, saying: "She has left an indelible mark on the world and an unfillable chasm in our hearts. Hold your kids extra tight tonight and for now please leave us to work through things. We will shout when we need you."

Wayne Coyne, the frontman of The Flaming Lips, delivered a heart-wrenching tribute to the late Nell during their recent gig in Poland. Overcome with emotion, Coyne spoke highly of the young talent who was tragically taken from the world too soon.

"We have a very sad announcement to make tonight," he began. "We have a Canadian friend, her name is Nell. We recorded an amazing album with her three years ago, an album full of songs by Nick Cave."

"Today we bring some sorrowful news - she passed away in a car accident last night (October 6). It's moments like these that truly highlight the inspirational power of music and the joy of being surrounded by those you cherish."

Rising to fame at just 14, Nell captured the music industry's attention with her album of Nick Cave covers, aptly named Where The Viaduct Looms. This self-produced marvel reached The Flaming Lips, leading them to feature on several tracks.

Nell's wildest dreams were realised when her debut album hit the shelves in November 2021, showcasing her prodigious talent at the mere age of 14. Following the success of this initial foray into music, Nell had been diligently crafting her first official album, anticipated to drop "in early 2025".

In light of her untimely death, the fate of this project remains uncertain.