Oliver Tree’s Santa Cruz “Celebration of Life” to Feature Diplo, Live Music, and Tribute Videos
Oliver Tree
Skyler Barberio/Rolling Stone
Trending on Billboard
The late genre-bending artist Oliver Tree is set to receive a fittingly unconventional farewell this Saturday, July 25, as family, friends, and fans gather for a celebration of life at the UC Santa Cruz Quarry Amphitheater. Announced via his official Instagram account, the memorial tribute honoring Oliver Tree Nickell will commence at 7:30 p.m. PST. The program features live musical performances, retrospective tribute videos, and heartfelt speeches from loved ones. While in-person seating is strictly limited, admirers around the globe can tune into the live broadcast online.
Spanning three hours, the upcoming stream promises never-before-seen archival footage celebrating the visionary creator, renowned for his whimsical aesthetic and internet-breaking visual projects. A star-studded lineup of guest speakers is also slated to appear, including electronic music pioneer Diplo, digital creator Ethan Klein, Mexican personality Ethan Mercury, and entertainer-turned-athlete Logan Paul.
Demonstrating deep camaraderie, close confidant and Chicago-based producer Whethan recently confirmed he has rescheduled his scheduled performances at the Shambhala festival in Las Vegas this weekend to be present at the commemoration.
Embodying Tree’s signature theatricality, the official event poster playfully hints at custom caskets designed for each of the musician’s eccentric alter-egos, alongside immersive live performances and additional surprises.
Tree, 32, tragically lost his life on June 14 during a devastating helicopter accident in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, which claimed the lives of five others. At the time, the performer was journeying through South America for his ambitious World First World tour. His label, Atlantic Records, released an emotional statement following the tragedy: “We are shocked and saddened by Oliver’s untimely passing. He was a remarkable talent — a gifted artist and songwriter who forged a thoroughly unique and captivating style. Oliver was endlessly inventive and a true original. He was a cherished friend to many and a beloved member of our music family. He profoundly loved music and his fans, and his absence will be deeply felt. We extend our heartfelt condolences to Oliver’s family, friends, and team, as well as the families and loved ones of all those affected by this tragic event.”
All financial proceeds generated from Saturday’s gathering will directly support the philanthropic endowment established by the singer prior to his passing: Dr. Oliver Tree’s Extremely Epic Grant for Baby Geniuses.
View the official event flyer below.
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