Brent Hinds, the former lead guitarist of the heavy metal band Mastodon, tragically died in Atlanta. He was 51. The accident occurred late Wednesday when his Harley-Davidson motorcycle collided with a BMW SUV. The driver reportedly turned without yielding, leading to the crash. The Fulton County medical examiner confirmed his death.
Hinds co-founded Mastodon in 2000 with Troy Sanders, Bill Kelliher, and Brann Dailor. The band quickly made a name for itself, blending heavy metal with elements of rock, grunge, and progressive sounds. Their debut album, Remission, was released in 2002, and their follow-up, Leviathan, pushed them into the mainstream.
In a heartfelt statement on Instagram, Mastodon expressed their deep sorrow over Hinds’ loss. They described him as a “creative force” and shared their grief for his family and friends. The band asked for privacy during this difficult time.
Earlier this year, there were reports that Hinds had left Mastodon on mutual terms. However, Hinds later claimed he was forced out, revealing some tension within the group. This highlights how even in the music world, personal relationships can be complicated.
Hinds had a unique perspective on his music. In a past interview, he mentioned that he preferred a classic rock feel over the typical heavy metal sound. “I always wanted us to be this heavy, psychedelic thing,” he said. This vision helped shape Mastodon’s identity and influence on the genre.
Beyond music, Hinds appeared in the fifth season of HBO’s Game of Thrones, showcasing his versatility.
Tragically, the music world has lost a talented artist. As fans reflect on Hinds’ contributions, it’s a reminder of how music can connect us all, even amidst individual struggles.
