The former lead guitarist of Mastodon has died in a motorcycle crash aged 51.
Brent Hinds was driving his Harley-Davidson in Atlanta last night, when it collided with a BMW SUV at around 11:35pm local time.
The driver of the SUV did not give way while making a turn, with Hinds found ‘unresponsive’ at the scene and later pronounced dead by medics, according to an Atlanta police report.
Mastodon has said they are in a ‘state of unfathomable sadness and grief’, in an emotional tribute posted to Instagram.
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.’
Guns ‘N Roses icon Slash shared a photo of Hinds in tribute, while Alice In Chains singer William DuVall wrote: ‘This has knocked the wind out of me. RIP to the great Brent Hinds.’
Queens of the Stone Age also paid tribute to the star, writing: ‘Rest in Peace Brent Hinds, With love & respect. See you on the other side old friend.’
Hinds co-founded Mastodon in 2000 with bassist Troy Sanders, guitarist Bill Kelliher and drummer Brann Dailor.
The heavy metal group had six Grammy Award nominations and two albums that topped the Rock Album chart: Emperor of Sand in 2017 and Once More ’round the Sun in 2014.
Hinds had been the lead guitarist of the hit heavy metal group until he left the band in March this year.
Mastodon and Hinds were said to have ‘mutually decided to part ways’ but the exact reason for his departure was never given.
‘We’re deeply proud of and beyond grateful for the music and history we’ve shared and we wish him nothing but success and happiness in his future endeavors,’ the band said at the time.
However, earlier this month, Hinds hinted at a rocky relationship behind the scenes when he made social media comments referring to his ex-bandmates as ‘horrible humans’.
He had been due to tour Europe later this year with the band Fiend Without a Face, which was a side project of his while he was still with Mastodon.
Hinds married Raisa Moreno in 2017. It was reported the pair had split in 2023, but the separation was never confirmed. She has yet to issue a statement on Hinds’ death.
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