In a heartbreaking turn of events, the members of Mastodon have issued a statement of “unfathomable sadness and grief” following the sudden death of their former guitarist and founding member, Brent Hinds, with whom they had recently been engaged in a bitter public feud. Hinds was killed in a motorcycle accident in Atlanta, Georgia, on Wednesday night. He was 51 years old.
The tragic death has brought a sudden and shocking end to the recent animosity that followed Hinds‘ departure from the band in March. In a statement released Thursday, the band set aside all recent turmoil to honor their 25-year shared legacy with their fallen bandmate.
“We are in a state of unfathomable sadness and grief… last night Brent Hinds passed away as a result of a tragic accident,” the band wrote. “We are heartbroken, shocked, and still trying to process the loss of this creative force with whom we’ve shared so many triumphs, milestones, and the creation of music that has touched the hearts of so many. Our hearts are with Brent‘s family, friends, and fans. At this time, we please ask that you respect everyone’s privacy during this difficult time. RIP Brent.”
The heartfelt tribute comes just months after Hinds and the band parted ways in a split that, despite initial diplomatic statements, had become increasingly acrimonious. In recent months, Hinds had made several scathing social media posts, at one point calling his former bandmates “a s**t band with horrible humans.” The tragedy has instantly erased that conflict, refocusing attention on the monumental musical legacy they built together.
According to a report from the Atlanta Police Department, the fatal crash occurred at approximately 11:35 PM at the intersection of Memorial Drive SE and Boulevard SE. The preliminary investigation indicates that Hinds, who was operating a Harley Davidson motorcycle, was struck by a BMW SUV whose driver “failed to yield while turning left.” Hinds was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Brent Hinds was a founding member, lead guitarist, and vocalist for Mastodon for 25 years, a key creative force on all eight of the band’s studio albums, from their 2002 debut Remission through 2021’s critically acclaimed Hushed And Grim. His unique and virtuosic guitar work was a cornerstone of the band’s sound, helping them win a Grammy Award and become one of the most revered and influential metal bands of the 21st century.
