Oliver Tree Nickell, the singer and performer known for his viral videos and eccentric on-stage characters, will be memorialized Saturday at UC Santa Cruz's Quarry Amphitheater in a three-hour event that promises to reflect the quirky spirit he was known for throughout his career.
Tree died June 14 in a helicopter crash in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. He was 32. Five other people also died in the accident. At the time, Tree was traveling through South America as part of his World First World tour.
Atlantic Records released a statement following his death. "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," it read. "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."
According to Billboard, the celebration of life will begin at 7:30 p.m. PST and include live music, tribute videos, and speeches from friends and family. Tickets are limited, but a livestream will be available for fans who cannot attend in person.
The guest speaker list includes DJ and producer Diplo, YouTuber Ethan Klein, Mexican influencer Ethan Mercury, and influencer and boxer Logan Paul. The event poster also promises the screening of unreleased video content, in keeping with Tree's reputation for filming unconventional music videos and viral clips.
In a detail that fits Tree's public persona, the event will also feature caskets representing each of the singer's quirky characters.
Chicago DJ and producer Whethan, described as one of Tree's close friends, announced last week that he would postpone planned Las Vegas shows to attend the memorial.
All proceeds from Saturday's event will benefit the Dr. Oliver Tree's Extremely Epic Grant for Baby Geniuses, a foundation and endowment that Tree established before his death.
