Brent Hinds, founding member and former lead guitarist of Grammy-winning heavy metal band Mastodon, has died following a motorcycle crash in Atlanta, Georgia. He was 51.
Police told U.S. media outlets that Hinds was riding his Harley-Davidson when it collided with a BMW SUV whose driver failed to yield while turning. The Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office later confirmed his death on Wednesday.
Mastodon issued a statement on Instagram saying the band was in a “state of unfathomable sadness and grief.” They added, “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.” Tributes also poured in from across the rock community. Queens of the Stone Age wrote on X, “Rest in Peace Brent Hinds. With love & respect. See you on the other side old friend.” Alice in Chains frontman William DuVall said the news had “knocked the wind” out of him.
Hinds co-founded Mastodon in 2000 with bassist Troy Sanders, guitarist Bill Kelliher, and drummer Brann Dailor. Known for blending prog-rock, alternative, and grunge into their heavy sound, the band achieved critical acclaim with albums such as Remission, Leviathan, and the Grammy-winning Emperor of Sand. The group also made a cameo as “wildlings” in Game of Thrones season five.
Earlier this year, Billboard reported that Hinds had parted ways with Mastodon, though he later claimed he had been forced out. Despite the split, the band continued to perform, including at Ozzy Osbourne’s farewell show in July.
Beyond Mastodon, the Alabama-born musician played in projects ranging from surfabilly to psychedelic rock, including Fiend Without a Face, The Blood Vessels, West End Motel, and Legend of the Seagullmen.
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