Three months after the tragic loss of his son, Lil Jon is reflecting on the precious moments they shared.
The Grammy-winning artist took to social media to share an emotional look at their final father-son getaway to Japan, a trip that has taken on a profound new meaning since Nathan Smith, known as DJ Young Slade, passed away in February.
The video captures a bond built on shared interests and genuine joy. Nathan, who was “a big anime fan,” spent the trip with his father taking drawing classes from anime authors, trying on traditional Japanese clothing, and exploring the Fuji Speedway. Lil Jon recalled asking Nathan what he wanted for his birthday two years ago, and Nathan’s choice was to “go to Japan.”
“I had no idea that trip would become our final father-and-son trip… or his favorite one ever,” Lil Jon wrote. The pair fully immersed themselves in the experience, visiting museums, eating at Michelin-star sushi spots, and watching samurai swords being forged. Nathan even “got to learn how to drift and drive on the streets where the drift culture began.”
While the rapper admitted the trip was “expensive,” he emphasized that the cost was irrelevant compared to the memories made. “I saw how happy it made him,” he shared. “He told me it was the most fun he’d ever had on any trip. It hits different now, knowing we won’t get to make memories like that again.”
Following Nathan’s accidental drowning at age 27, Lil Jon is using his platform to remind others not to take time for granted. He warned his followers against the mindset that there is always a “later.” “Don’t say ‘I’ll see them later’ or ‘We can do that later,’” he urged. “Don’t skip the long hugs dont be frugal. Make long lasting memories when you can.”
His message was a heartfelt plea for people to stay present with their loved ones. “We all think we have time… but we don’t know Allah’s plan,” he wrote. “Love your people hard. You never know when it’s the last hug.” The rapper concluded the post with a simple, heavy sign-off: “Love you, son. Dad.”
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