Brent Hinds, the former frontman and guitarist of the Grammy-winning heavy metal group Mastodon, passed away in a motorcycle crash in Atlanta, as confirmed by the band and local authorities. He was 51 years old.
The tragic incident occurred when Hinds was riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle late at night and was struck by a BMW SUV that failed to yield while making a turn, according to the Atlanta police report. Hinds was found unresponsive at the scene, and a subsequent autopsy revealed that he succumbed to severe blunt force injuries.
In a statement shared on social media, the band expressed deep sorrow and disbelief over the loss of Hinds, acknowledging his significant contributions to their collective musical journey and the impact his artistry had on countless fans.
Mastodon achieved significant success with three albums reaching the top 10 of the Billboard 200 chart, including two that claimed the number one spot on the rock album chart – “Emperor of Sand” in 2017 and “Once More ’round the Sun” in 2014.
Hinds, alongside bassist Troy Sanders, guitarist Bill Kelliher, and drummer Brann Dailor, co-founded Mastodon in 2000. Their breakthrough came with the release of the band’s third studio album, “Blood Mountain,” in 2006, which marked their debut in the top 40, peaking at No. 32 on the Billboard 200.
In March 2025, Hinds departed from Mastodon, citing mutual agreement to part ways without specifying a reason. However, his social media posts hinted at strained relationships within the band.
Mastodon, known for blending intense metal with progressive elements and sludge-rock influences, garnered six Grammy nominations and clinched a win in 2017 for the best metal performance category with “Sultan’s Curse” from the album “Emperor of Sand.”
Recognized for their musical prowess, Rolling Stone magazine praised Mastodon’s 2011 album “The Hunter,” ranking it among the best of the year for its fusion of intricate thrash elements and distinctive musical complexity.
Prior to his untimely death, Hinds was scheduled to embark on a European tour later in the year with Fiend Without a Face, a band that had initially served as a side project during his tenure with Mastodon.
