Who were in G.R.L.? Members explored as Lauren Bennett dies at 36 

Singer Lauren Bennett, best known for featuring on LMFAO’s Party Rock Anthem and as a former member of G.R.L. (Girls Rock Life), died in England on May 29 at age 36.

Her former bandmates, Emmalyn Estrada, Natasha Slayton and Paula van Oppen, confirmed her death in a statement, expressing profound grief. It read:

“It is with great sadness that we share the passing of our beloved Lauren. Our hearts are broken, and we cannot begin to express how much she meant to us. 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.”

G.R.L. was formed by choreographer and director Robin Antin, who also created The Pussycat Dolls and Girlicious. The original lineup consisted of five members including Simone Battle and Lauren Bennett. Battle passed away in 2014. An inquest into Lauren Bennett’s death has been reportedly scheduled for late 2026.

Continue reading for more details.

All about the members of G.R.L. as Lauren Bennett passes away

G.R.L. was initially started as a relaunch of The Pussycat Dolls. It went through several iterations, lineup changes and guest appearances before solidifying as a five-member girl group. The members included Lauren Bennett, Simone Battle, Emmalyn Estrada, Natasha Slayton and Paula van Oppen.

Bennett is mostly recognized for LMFAO’s Party Rock Anthem which topped the Billboard Hot 100 for six weeks. She began her career with Paradiso Girls before joining G.R.L. Paradiso Girls was formed in 2007. During that time, she was 18.

While speaking with Rolling Stone in August 2014, the G.R.L. members described each member of the group. According to Natasha, Paula was the “bad girl and the crazy one.” She added that they mostly don’t know her whereabouts, whether she is late or has run off. Paula is from the U.S. and was an energetic performer in the group.

Natasha described Lauren as a supermodel and glam goddess. She said Simone was the “fearless warrior” who never takes no for an answer. Simone was based in the U.S. She reportedly died at the age of 25 by suicide.

Then Lauren Bennett continues:

“Emmalyn’s our baby, she’s the sweet one. She keeps us all mellow. And Natasha is our girly-girly-girl. She likes pink and rainbows.”

Emmalyn is from Canada, and Natasha is from the U.S. Emmalyn has been described as a versatile singer and Natasha as another energetic performer.

G.R.L. released their self-titled debut EP in July 2014. The five-track project was released through Kemosabe Records and featured hit singles like Vacation and Ugly Heart. The girl group appeared as featured artists on Pitbull’s Wild Wild Love which became a major international hit.

Lauren Bennett died in her native Kent, England before her 37th birthday on June 24. A private memorial was held for her in London shortly before the announcement of her demise. Tributes have been pouring in from Bennett’s fans and the music community, who have highlighted her contributions to the 2010s pop and dance music.

A user said on X:

“ugly heart by GRL was one of the songs that shaped my teenage years. i never imagined i'd have to say goodbye to both simone battle and lauren bennett. rest in love, beautiful souls.”

A second person commented:

“Tragic. Lauren Bennett is the second former member of G.R.L. to pass away, the other being Simone Battle. May both rest peacefully.”

Another wrote:

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“It’s always sad seeing someone pass at such a young age. Wishing her family peace and comfort.”

Lauren was remembered fondly for her vibrant personality, her powerful vocals on LMFAO’s “Party Rock Anthem,” and her time with G.R.L. and Paradiso Girls.

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