Melanie Martinez Honors Ex-Boyfriend Oliver Tree Following Tragic Death

Melanie Martinez has paid a poignant tribute to her ex-boyfriend, the genre-bending artist Oliver Tree, following the news of his tragic death on Sunday. The singer-songwriter, known for his viral hits like “Life Goes On” and “Alien Boy,” was 32 years old.

Tree was among six individuals who lost their lives when two helicopters collided in Rio de Janeiro. The artist had been visiting the city following a performance in São Paulo, Brazil, as he concluded the South American leg of his latest world tour.

Martinez, who dated Tree between 2019 and 2020, took to Instagram to express her profound grief. Reflecting on their time together, she remembered him as a deeply dedicated creative force. “Been an absolute wreck today,” Martinez wrote. “It’s really hard to understand how someone who you once shared such a specific and formative time of your life with can all of a sudden be gone. He was so dedicated to his art which I admired and respected so deeply.”

She continued, “I think everyone who knew him will look back at those moments of laughter and joy he so easily sparked. His laugh was so contagious and warm. His ability to lead creatively and take action while also maintaining a sense of childlike wonder and awe was so inspiring. He had such a soft heart and was a true artist in every way.”

Martinez concluded her message with a final farewell: “Rest in peace Oliver. I know you’re making the angels giggle. I’ll be here wondering what stunt and creative project you’re scheming up in heaven.”

The music community has been reeling from the loss, with several prominent artists sharing their condolences. Bebe Rexha, who had collaborated with Tree on unreleased music, shared her heartbreak, noting his intelligence and passion. “He was so smart. Passionate. Talented. Kind. I’m so sad,” she wrote. Similarly, Kid Cudi expressed his shock on social media, describing Tree as an “amazing and beautiful human” with whom he had spoken just weeks prior.