Grammy-winning rapper Lil Jon has issued a heartfelt public appeal for prayers and privacy following the distressing disappearance of his adult son in Georgia. The musician, whose real name is Jonathan Smith, is facing a family crisis as authorities continue their search for 27-year-old Nathan Smith, who performs under the stage name DJ Young Slade.
Police Concern Over Missing Musician
According to official reports from the Milton Police Department, Nathan Smith was last seen early on Tuesday morning at approximately 6 a.m. local time in Milton, a suburban community located about thirty miles north of downtown Atlanta. The police statement indicates concerning circumstances surrounding his disappearance.
The Milton Police Department's report states: "Subject ran out of his house and has been missing since. Subject left on foot and does not possess a phone. He may be disoriented and in need of assistance. Family and friends are concerned for his safety."
Physical Description and Contact Information
Authorities have provided a detailed physical description of the missing man to aid public recognition. Nathan Smith is described as standing 5 feet 9 inches tall and weighing approximately 150 pounds. The Milton Police Department has established a dedicated contact line for anyone with potential information about his whereabouts, urging the public to call 678-297-6300 with any relevant details.
Family's Emotional Appeal
Through his official representative, Lil Jon has communicated the family's difficult position during this troubling time. The statement provided to media outlets emphasizes both their need for privacy and their hope for communal support.
"The family is asking for privacy at this time," Lil Jon's representative confirmed. "We are also asking for continued prayers for Nathan to come home safe. Thank you."
No Updates as Search Continues
As of Wednesday, police authorities confirmed that Nathan Smith remains missing with no significant developments in the case. The search operation continues as concern grows among both family members and law enforcement officials about his wellbeing and current condition.
Background of the Missing Musician
Nathan Smith represents the next generation of musical talent in his family, having followed his famous father into the entertainment industry. As DJ Young Slade, he released his most recent single titled "Feels" in March 2025, continuing to build his own musical career separate from his father's considerable legacy.
Lil Jon previously shared insights into his son's early musical development during a 2023 podcast appearance. "I put him in Scratch DJ Academy. He graduated at like 12 years old," the rapper recalled. "He was the smallest thing in there at the graduation. Throughout his teenage years, he started DJing in clubs around L.A., and then he also started making music."
The proud father added a poignant observation about familial influence: "It's literally in your kid's genes to do what you do."
Family Dynamics and Personal History
Nathan Smith is the only child born from Lil Jon's marriage to Nicole Smith, which began in 2004. The rapper publicly announced their separation in February 2024, revealing that the couple had actually parted ways nearly two years earlier. Lil Jon, now 55, also has a daughter named Nahara with his current girlfriend Jamila Sozahdah.
The "Yeah!" and "Get Low" hitmaker has maintained a visible public profile in recent years, including performing at the 2024 Democratic National Convention and expressing various political opinions alongside his continued musical activities.
Social Media Presence and Recent Activity
Nathan Smith maintained an active presence on social media platforms prior to his disappearance. His most recent Instagram post, shared on January 6, featured photographs with his manager Lil Will and fellow rapper Bow Wow backstage at the iHeart Jingle Ball event in Atlanta.
On Wednesday, Smith's manager echoed the family's request for privacy through social media channels. Lil Will reposted a message on his Instagram Story that emphasized the personal nature of their relationship: "This is more than a client, it's a brother. Please respect their space."
The music community and concerned citizens continue to monitor the situation closely as search efforts persist in the Milton area and surrounding regions of Georgia. Family, friends, and fans alike await hopeful news about the young musician's safe return.
