Rap artist Lil Jon (born Jonathan H. Smith) and his family are grieving after the death of his 27-year-old son, Nathan Smith, who performed as DJ Young Slade. Police and family confirmed that a body believed to be Nathan’s was found in a pond near his home in Milton, Georgia, just north of Atlanta, on February 6, 2026. Authorities expanded a search after Nathan was reported missing on February 3, when he ran out of his home on foot, without a phone and possibly disoriented.
Lil Jon and Nathan’s mother, Nicole Smith, released a joint statement describing their devastating loss and expressing gratitude to search teams. While official confirmation and the cause of death are pending from the Fulton County Medical Examiner, police have said there’s no sign of foul play so far.
Nathan was remembered as kind, thoughtful, passionate, and deeply loved by both family and friends. He was a talented DJ, music producer, artist, and engineer who graduated from New York University and released music under his stage name.
What Happened? — Circumstances Leading to His Death
The timeline leading to Nathan’s death began when he left his Milton residence early on February 3 without a phone, prompting fears for his wellbeing. Milton police issued a missing persons alert stating he “may be disoriented and in need of assistance”. Rescue teams searched for days, ultimately locating a body in a pond near Mayfield Park on February 6.
At this stage, investigators continue their review, and the official cause and manner of death have not yet been released, with police treating the situation as an open investigation.
Father-Son Dynamic: Love, Legacy & Shared Music
Despite this tragedy, the relationship between Lil Jon and Nathan was by most accounts supportive and close:
Nathan began DJing at a young age and pursued music professionally, influenced by his father’s legacy but also carving his own path in the industry.
In interviews, Nathan spoke about his respect for Lil Jon’s support and how his father encouraged him to develop his own creative voice.
Lil Jon publicly praised Nathan’s talent and work ethic, highlighting his growth from a youth learning DJ skills to a graduate of NYU’s music program.
This shared love of music was a cornerstone of their bond — and what many saw as Nathan working to continue his father’s influence while building his own legacy.
Lil Jon’s Personal Life: Family and Relationships
Current Relationship
Since separating from his wife Nicole Smith (they married in 2004 and split amicably in 2022), Lil Jon has been in a relationship with TV personality Jamila Sozahdah. The two share a daughter, Nahara, born in 2024, and have appeared publicly as a family.
Though neither party has confirmed marriage publicly, they are often featured together on social media, and the relationship has drawn both support and some online criticism due to perceptions around timing and public narrative — issues that have trended on social platforms.
Lil Jon’s Career: What’s Next in 2026
Even amid personal hardship, Lil Jon’s career is active and evolving:
Music & Tours
Lil Jon is scheduled for an international tour throughout 2026, with numerous concert dates across Europe and the U.S., showing continued demand for his performances.
This tour — often billed as part of an energetic return to the live scene — includes festival stops and collaborations with artists like Pitbull, keeping him visible on the global stage.
Creative Growth Beyond Hip-Hop
In recent years, Lil Jon has also expanded into guided meditation and wellness, releasing projects that reinterpret his iconic style in new contexts and promote well-being.
Legacy & Influence
Lil Jon remains regarded as one of the architects of crunk and club hip-hop — his influence visible in contemporary dance music, collaborations, and his blending of genre and lifestyle content. His adaptability suggests a continuing role in music and culture even as he navigates personal tragedy.
Looking Ahead
As of early February 2026:
The Smith family continues to request privacy as they grieve.
Investigators await the medical examiner’s report to clarify how Nathan died.
Fans and peers in music continue to send tributes to DJ Young Slade and rally around Lil Jon and his family during this painful period.
Lil Jon’s career demonstrates resilience and evolution, with new music, tours, and ventures that reflect both his enduring legacy and adaptability in a changing industry.
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