Lauren Bennett, a British vocalist known for her work with the girl group G.R.L. and as a featured artist on LMFAO's "Party Rock Anthem," has died at age 37. Her former bandmates announced her passing on Instagram, expressing their devastation over the loss.
"It is with great sadness that we share the passing of our beloved Lauren," G.R.L. wrote in their tribute. "Our hearts are broken, and we cannot begin to express how much she meant to us." The cause of death has not been disclosed.
Bennett's music career began in her hometown of Meopham, Kent, where she performed in local talent contests and sang in pubs and bars as a teenager. She gained early exposure by competing on The X Factor, reaching the final 12 before being eliminated from the competition. Following her X Factor appearance, she was invited to audition for a new girl group called Paradiso Girls.
At just 17 years old, Bennett relocated to Los Angeles to join Paradiso Girls. The group found chart success with their 2009 single "Patron Tequila," featuring Lil Jon and Eve, which climbed to number 3 on the US dance club songs chart.
Her biggest break came in 2011 when "Party Rock Anthem" by LMFAO became a global phenomenon. The track dominated charts worldwide and became defining song of the dance music era, introducing Bennett's vocals to millions of listeners across the world.
Following her success with LMFAO, Bennett joined G.R.L., a five-piece all-women band. The group achieved significant chart success, appearing on rapper Pitbull's 2014 single "Wild Wild Love." Their biggest hit came with "Ugly Heart," which reached the UK Top 20 and broke into the top 5 in Australia and New Zealand.
Bennett remained committed to meaningful causes throughout her career. After G.R.L. member Simone Battle died in 2014, the band released a tribute single called "Lighthouse" and partnered with Give an Hour, a mental health charity. Bennett spoke passionately about the issue at the time, noting the influence the music industry holds over young people and expressing hope that their work might help prevent others from taking their own lives.
G.R.L. continued to perform occasionally over the years and briefly reunited as a four-piece in 2020. In their statement, her bandmates reflected on Bennett's lasting impact. "We will forever cherish the love, laughter, and countless memories she gave us," they wrote. "Her beautiful spirit touched so many lives, and she will be deeply missed and forever loved."