Crunk music pioneer Lil Jon is publicly mourning the tragic and unthinkable loss of his son, Nathan Smith, who passed away at the age of 27. The artist, whose real name is Jonathan Smith, shared a deeply emotional tribute on social media on Thursday, February 19th, following his son's funeral earlier that week.

In his heartfelt post, Lil Jon revealed the timing of the services, stating, "On the first day of Ramadan yesterday, We laid my only son to rest. In this holy month, I’m asking for extra du’a for him and for our family." He implored for prayers, adding, "Please pray that Allah grants him Jannah and grants us sabr, mercy, and strength. Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un." The emotional message was accompanied by a slideshow of cherished "Kodak moments" featuring his son over the years, underscoring the profound bond they shared.

The "Get Low" rapper continued to express his immense grief, writing, "I love you, son. Life will never be the same without you. Allah, give me strength." He also extended gratitude to those who have offered their support: "Also thank you to everyone who has reached out with condolences, love, and prayers we appreciate you all." Lil Jon concluded his tribute with a promise to honor his son's legacy, stating, "I will make sure the world knows your talent and never forgets your name. Nathan Murray Smith."

Nathan Smith, known in the music community as DJ Young Slade, was reported missing on February 3rd by the Milton Police Department in Georgia. The search concluded tragically when Smith’s body was discovered in a nearby pond on February 6th by the Cherokee County Fire Department. While the Milton Police Department does not currently suspect foul play in his death, an investigation into the circumstances remains ongoing. The Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office has yet to release the results of an autopsy.

Lil Jon had previously confirmed his son’s passing in a statement to Billboard on February 6th, shortly after the discovery. In that statement, he described the NYU graduate as "the kindest human being you would ever meet." He articulated the depth of his and Nathan’s mother’s devastation, saying, "I am extremely heartbroken for the tragic loss of my son, Nathan Smith. His mother and I are devastated."

He further elaborated on Nathan's character, highlighting his "immensely caring, thoughtful, polite, passionate, and warmhearted" nature, emphasizing his deep love for his family and friends. Lil Jon concluded his earlier statement by expressing unwavering love and pride: "We loved Nathan with all of our hearts and are incredibly proud of him. He was loved and appreciated, and in our last times together we’re comforted in knowing that we expressed that very sentiment to him." The rapper's recent social media post serves as a poignant continuation of his public grieving, reaffirming the irreplaceable void left by his son's untimely death.