Lil Jon’s Son DJ Young Slade Dead at 27 After Being Reported Missing

“Nathan Smith — better known in the music world as DJ Young Slade — has tragically died at just 27 years old.  Nathan was the son of Grammy-nominated rapper and producer Lil Jon. Earlier this week, authorities in Milton, Georgia, launched a search after Nathan was reported missing. He was last seen leaving his home early one morning without his phone, prompting serious concern from family and local police.  After several days of searching, divers from the Cherokee County Fire Department recovered a body from a pond near his residence on Friday. Officials believe the body to be Nathan’s, though the Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office is still working to officially confirm his identity and determine the cause and manner of death. At this time, authorities say there is no indication of foul play.  In a heartfelt statement, Lil Jon and Nathan’s mother, Nicole Smith, shared their profound grief, describing Nathan as kind, thoughtful, and deeply loved by family and friends. They spoke of his passion for music — as a producer, artist and DJ — and expressed pride in the life he built, including graduating from New York University and carving out his own creative path.  The family has asked for privacy as they mourn this devastating loss. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spate-radio-the-hip-hop-podcast-news-drama-music--6251846/support.© 2025 Spate Media. All rights reserved. The #1 Hip Hop + Business Podcast from Spate Media.Follow us: @Spatemediaempire | Visit: Spatehiphopnews.comViews expressed are those of the hosts and guests.Support the show by subscribing, rating, and sharing.Spate Radio Podcast Founded in 2007