Lauren Bennett, the British-born singer who rose to fame as a featured vocalist on LMFAO's 2011 global hit "Party Rock Anthem" and later performed with the groups G.R.L. and Paradiso Girls, died in May at the age of 36, multiple media outlets reported this week.
Death Confirmed by Former Bandmates
The members of G.R.L., which was active in the mid-2010s, announced Bennett's death in a statement on Instagram on Monday. The post was signed by Emmalyn Estrada, Natasha Slayton, and Paula van Oppen, the remaining members of the group.
"It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Lauren," the statement read. "Our hearts are broken, and we cannot begin to express how much she meant to us. We will forever cherish the love, laughter, and countless memories she gave us."
The statement continued: "Her beautiful spirit touched so many lives, and she will be deeply missed and forever loved. Rest peacefully, sweet Lauren. You will always be in our hearts."
Details of Her Passing
According to USA Today, which cited local coroner records, Bennett died in England on May 29. A cause of death has not been revealed. An inquest is scheduled to take place in the fall.
Career Highlights
Bennett first gained widespread recognition in 2011 when she was featured on LMFAO's "Party Rock Anthem," which became a worldwide smash and peaked at number one on the Billboard Hot 100. She also worked with will.i.am and CeeLo Green during her career.
Before joining G.R.L., Bennett was a member of the Paradiso Girls, a group formed by will.i.am. G.R.L. was formed in 2013 and released the hit single "Ugly Heart" in 2014. The group disbanded after the death of member Simone Battle in 2014. Bennett later pursued solo projects and continued to collaborate with various artists.
