Originally written by Gareth Dobson · 22 October 2003
The cause of death is, as yet, unclear, but a number of sources have called it 'an apparent suicide', some claiming he stabbed himself in the stomach (Romeo and Juliet style?). Smith spent a long time struggling with a substantial drug problem, as well as a much-documented battle against depression.
During his lifetime, Elliott released five full-length albums as a solo artist (most famously 'XO', 'Either/Or' and his last album, 'Figure 8'), as well as a host of singles and EP's. Elliott was nominated for an Academy Award for 'Miss Misery', his musical contribution to the Academy Award winning movie, 'Good Will Hunting'.
At the time of his death, Elliott was recording his sixth album, 'From A Basement on the Hill'.
There is a short obituary on www.sweetadeline.net. More information is also available on www.elliottsmith.com.