Oliver Tree’s ex-girlfriend Melanie Martinez is paying tribute to the singer after his tragic death at the age of 32.
“Been an absolute wreck today. 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,” Martinez, 31, wrote via her Instagram Story on Sunday, June 14. “He was so dedicated to his art, which I admired and respected so deeply. I think everyone who knew him will look back at those moments of laughter and joy he so easily sparked.”
Martinez — who dated Tree for nearly a year beginning in 2019 — said she will cherish his “contagious and warm” laugh and his outlook on life.
“His ability to lead creatively and take action while also maintaining a sense of childlike wonder and awe was so inspiring,” she wrote. “He had such a soft heart and was a true artist in every way. Rest in peace Oliver. I know you’re making the angels giggle. I’ll be here wondering what stunt and creative product you’re scheming up in heaven. All my love.”
News broke on Sunday that two helicopters had crashed into one another in southwest Rio de Janeiro. According to a same-day report from CNN Brazil, Tree was one of six fatalities in the reported crash.
Tree — who was known for hit songs, including “Life Goes On” and “Miss You” — amassed more than 3 million Instagram followers and recently traveled to Brazil for his world tour.
He recently performed in São Paulo on June 6 and was set to play in Lisbon, Portugal, on July 13.
In Tree’s final Instagram post before his death, he shared a glimpse into his trip to Brazil.
“Gringo’s 24 hours in Brazil,” the musician wrote in Spanish via Instagram on Saturday, June 14, alongside footage of himself playing soccer, getting a haircut and cooking meat.
Since Tree’s death was reported, many musicians have shared powerful tributes and fond memories of the artist.
“I’m in shock,” Bebe Rexha wrote via X on Sunday. “I was in the middle of my CD signing in NYC when I found the news of Oliver Tree. I can’t believe it. We recorded a record together to be on dirty blonde. He was so smart. Passionate. Talented. Kind. I’m so sad. May he rest in peace.”
Comedian Whitney Cummings added, “Oliver is one of the most talented people on earth and usually that comes with an ego and all kinds of dickhead nonsense, but Oliver is pure love and the best version of what an artist can and should be. There’s no silver lining. We lost a giant.”
