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

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

Author: Antoine Maurice King February 7, 2026 Duration: 1:26
“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. 

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Spate Radio Podcast Founded in 2007

Hosted by Antoine Maurice King, Spate Radio: The Hip Hop Podcast has built a reputation for conversations that feel more like late-night studio sessions than formal interviews. It’s a space where the architects and rising stars of the culture break down the craft, business, and real stories behind the music without a filter. You’ll hear from artists, producers, executives, and cultural commentators, diving into topics that range from breaking news and viral moments to the deeper histories that shape today’s sound. This isn't just about playback; it's about pulling back the curtain on the entire ecosystem. For anyone living and breathing hip-hop-whether you're an artist grinding in the studio, a professional navigating the industry, or a fan who craves more than just the surface-this podcast offers a direct line to the pulse of the culture. The dialogue is raw, the insights are real, and the perspective is uniquely grounded in Antoine Maurice King's deep connection to the scene. Tune in for a weekly dose of authenticity that goes beyond the headlines and straight to the heart of what moves hip-hop forward.
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