The alt-pop US musician Oliver Tree was known for his eccentric music, viral internet persona and unconventional views on life and love. Following his reported death in a helicopter crash in Rio de Janeiro, many fans have been revisiting his past interviews, and they have shed light on his personal life and relationships. In one of his old interviews, he opened up about his approach to relationships and revealed that he had been exploring polyamory.
In a candid conversation years before his death, Tree admitted that traditional dating was not always compatible with his fast-paced lifestyle. His comments quickly grabbed attention online and have resurfaced as interest in his personal life grows.
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“I’ve Basically Been Exploring Polyamory”
Speaking about his dating life, Tree said: “I’ve basically been exploring polyamory. I have a bunch of girlfriends.”
The singer added that his lifestyle played a major role in how he approached relationships. “I wish I had an excuse for this. I think it goes with the lifestyle.”
Tree explained that constant travel made it difficult to maintain a conventional relationship, leading him to explore alternatives.
Why Oliver Tree Chose a Different Relationship Path
According to Tree, life on the road often left little room for stability. He spent long periods travelling for tours, recordings and creative projects, making it challenging to settle down in one place.
Despite discussing multiple relationships, Tree made it clear that he was not opposed to commitment. He said that for the right person, he could embrace a monogamous relationship and noted that he had been monogamous for most of his life.
Was Oliver Tree Dating Anyone?
Tree's romantic life frequently attracted public interest. Over the years, he was most notably linked to singer-songwriter Melanie Martinez.
The musician previously spoke openly about the challenges that followed their breakup, revealing that online criticism and fan reactions took a toll on him. Martinez later urged fans to stop harassing Tree and discouraged the spread of misinformation about their relationship.
A Childhood Unlike Most Artists
Oliver Tree Nickell was born on June 29, 1993, in Santa Cruz, California. Public records identify his parents as Jesse Louis Nickell III and Christine Marie Begin.
Tree often credited his unusual upbringing for shaping his personality and artistic style. He revealed that both of his parents worked in the circus during his childhood, and the family spent years traveling before settling in California.
"I grew up travelling. Both my parents worked in the circus, so we travelled around until I was 12 years old, when we landed in Santa Cruz, California," Tree told ICON.
That unconventional environment later became a defining feature of his music videos, performances and larger-than-life public image.
Oliver Tree’s Legacy Beyond Music
Tree built a loyal global fanbase through songs such as Life Goes On, Alien Boy and Miss You. Known for blending humor, satire and emotional storytelling, he developed a reputation as one of the music industry's most unconventional performers.
In the wake of reports surrounding the Rio helicopter crash, fans across social media have been sharing tributes and memories, remembering not just his music but also the authenticity with which he discussed subjects ranging from heartbreak to modern relationships.
