Lauren Bennett, the British-born vocalist known for her work with the girl group G.R.L. and as a featured artist on LMFAO's global hit "Party Rock Anthem," has died at the age of 36. The news was confirmed by G.R.L. in a heartfelt Instagram post on July 6, 2026.
Group Pays Tribute
"It is with great sadness that we share the passing of our beloved Lauren," the group wrote. "Our hearts are broken, and we cannot begin to express how much she meant to us." A cause of death was not specified.
Early Life and Career
Born in Meopham, Kent, UK, Bennett began her music career by entering local talent contests and singing in pubs and bars. As a teenager, she auditioned for The X Factor and made it to the final 12 before being sent home. Shortly after, she was asked to audition for a new girl group called Paradiso Girls. At age 17, Bennett moved to Los Angeles to join the band. Paradiso Girls released the single "Patron Tequila" featuring Lil Jon and Eve, which reached No. 3 on the US dance club songs chart in 2009.
Rise to Fame with LMFAO and G.R.L.
In 2011, Bennett contributed vocals to LMFAO's "Party Rock Anthem," which became a worldwide sensation. She then joined G.R.L., a five-piece all-women band. The group appeared on Pitbull's 2014 single "Wild Wild Love" and achieved their biggest hit with "Ugly Heart," which reached the UK Top 20 and the Top 5 in Australia and New Zealand.
Overcoming Tragedy
After the death of G.R.L. member Simone Battle in 2014, the band released a tribute single titled "Lighthouse" and partnered with the mental health charity Give an Hour. "There's a lot of young people who are taking their own lives, and the music industry is so influential on youth," Bennett said at the time. "Hopefully, for us, we would love to help at least one person."
Later Years and Legacy
G.R.L. continued to perform occasionally and briefly reunited as a four-piece in 2020. In their tribute, the group wrote: "We will forever cherish the love, laughter, and countless memories she gave us. Her beautiful spirit touched so many lives, and she will be deeply missed and forever loved."
