Diplo, Logan Paul Honor Oliver Tree at Santa Cruz ‘Celebration of Life’
Oliver Tree was remembered by friends, family and collaborators at a public "Celebration of Life" in his native Santa Cruz, California, on Saturday 25 July, six weeks after the singer died in a helicopter crash in Rio de Janeiro at the age of 32. The ceremony at Santa Cruz's Quarry Amphitheater reflected the surreal, absurdist style that defined his career, with speakers including Diplo and Logan Paul paying tribute alongside Tree's parents, and proceeds going to a foundation set up under his will to support emerging artists.
The event featured three mannequins dressed as Tree, in his trademark windbreakers, sunglasses, cowboy hats and bowl haircut, laid out in coffins in front of the stage. Diplo called him the coolest person he had ever met, while close friend Logan Paul delivered a comedic eulogy in keeping with Tree's spirit. All proceeds benefited Dr. Oliver Tree's Extremely Epic Grant for Baby Geniuses, honouring his stated wish to leave his wealth to emerging artists rather than his family. Born Oliver Tree Nickell, he released four studio albums with Atlantic Records, including the 2020 debut Ugly Is Beautiful, which reached No. 14 on the Billboard 200, and his 2022 Robin Schulz collaboration "Miss You," which earned a BRIT Award nomination.
- Santa Cruz memorial honoured Oliver Tree, dead at 32 in helicopter crash
- Diplo and Logan Paul spoke; mannequins in coffins staged
- Proceeds fund a foundation supporting emerging artists, per his will