The music world is mourning the loss of singer, songwriter, and producer Oliver Tree, who reportedly died on Sunday (June 14) following a helicopter collision in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. He was 32 years old.
According to reports from CNN Brazil and the Associated Press, Tree was among six people killed when two helicopters collided over the Brazilian city. Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the accident, which occurred in Recreio dos Bandeirantes, a neighborhood in Rio de Janeiro’s western zone.
The artist, whose full name was Oliver Tree Nickell, was traveling through South America as part of his World’s First World Tour. The other victims were identified as passengers Lucas Vignale, Gaspar Prim, and Lucas Brito Chaves, along with pilots Alexandre Souza and Charles Marsillac.
A Unique Voice in Modern Music
Born on June 29, 1993, in Santa Cruz, California, Oliver Tree became one of the most recognizable and unconventional figures in contemporary music. Known for his signature bowl haircut, colorful visual style, and genre-blending sound, Tree built a loyal global fan base by combining elements of pop, rock, electronic music, and alternative influences.
He first emerged with the EP Demons in 2013 and gained wider attention with his 2016 breakout single “When I’m Down,” which led to a recording contract with Atlantic Records.
A Career Defined by Chart Success
Throughout his career, Tree released four studio albums through Atlantic Records:
- Ugly Is Beautiful (2020)
- Cowboy Tears (2022)
- Alone in a Crowd (2023)
- Love You Madly Hate You Badly (2026)
Before signing with the label, he independently released Splitting Branches under the moniker Tree in 2013.
Among his biggest hits, “Life Goes On” became a global phenomenon, reaching No. 7 on Billboard’s Hot Rock & Alternative Songs chart in 2022. His collaboration with German DJ and producer Robin Schulz, “Miss You,” climbed to No. 4 on Billboard’s Hot Dance/Electronic Songs chart and became one of the most-streamed tracks of the year.
His debut major-label album, Ugly Is Beautiful, also topped Billboard’s Top Rock & Alternative Albums chart, cementing his place as one of the most innovative artists of his generation.
Final Tour and Last Release
In April, Tree released his latest album, Love You Madly Hate You Badly, which marked another chapter in his ever-evolving artistic journey. He performed in São Paulo on June 6 and was scheduled to appear in Lisbon, Portugal, in early July, with additional tour dates planned across the United States, Europe, Australia, and China.
A Lasting Legacy
Oliver Tree’s career was defined by creativity, individuality, and a willingness to challenge the boundaries of modern pop music. Through his music, visuals, and distinctive personality, he created a unique artistic identity that resonated with millions of fans around the world.
As tributes continue to pour in across social media, fans and fellow artists are remembering a performer who never stopped pushing creative limits and whose impact on alternative pop culture will not soon be forgotten.
Photo by Srdjan Stevanovic/Getty Images
