Mastodon co-founder William Brent Hinds has died, aged 51, with tributes having been paid to the musician, who was previously the lead guitarist of the heavy metal band
Former Mastodon member William Brent Hinds has died aged 51. The musician, who was once the lead guitarist for the heavy metal band, reportedly died in a collision in the US.
Brent co-founded the band in 2000 with drummer Brann Dailor, guitarist Bill Kelliher and bassist Troy Sanders. The Grammy nominated group released numerous albums prior to Brent’s departure from the line-up in March.
The band have been among those paying tribute to its former member following the news that he died this week. Brent reportedly died in a crash in Atlanta last night.
It has been reported Brent’s motorcycle is said to have collided with an SUV near Boulevard, Atlanta, and he was rushed to the hospital after being found unresponsive. The outlet reports that his death was confirmed by the Fulton County medical examiner’s office.
A medical report, obtained by the Sun US, reportedly said that he suffered a “fracture in the left leg along with multiple lacerations and abrasions”. The outlet added that medical records state: “Despite resuscitative efforts, the death was pronounced at 21:28 hours.”
In a preliminary statement, the Atlanta Police Department said that officers “located an unresponsive male” who was involved in a collision last night, though have not named the individual. It continues: “The male appeared to be operating a Harley Davidson during the time of collision. Medical personnel pronounced the male deceased. The other driver involved, a female who occupied a BMW SUV remained on scene.
“The APD Accident Investigations Unit responded to the scene to determine the circumstances. Preliminary investigation indicates the male was traveling West on Boulevard. The female operating the BMW SUV failed to yield while turning left and collided into the male victim who was operating the Harley Davidson. The investigation remains active at this time.”
Tributes have been paid to Brent this week following the news of his death. One fan wrote on X: “Rest in Power Brent Hinds. Jam some Mastodon today.” Another said: “Damm, I loved his playing style and eccentricity, he left a mark.”
Mastodon said on Instagram: “We are in a state of unfathomable sadness and grief… last night Brent Hinds passed away as a result of a tragic accident. 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.”
A statement issued by the band’s former record label Relapse read: “Our hearts are broken with the news of Brent Hinds’ tragic passing. It is an understatement to say that Mastodon forever changed the course of Relapse’s history, for the absolute better.
“The records Mastodon released with Relapse are all time classics across any genre, and they would not sound the way they sound, without Brent. His larger than life personality was eclipsed only by his monstrous musicianship.
“Our love goes out to Brent’s friends and family, the rest of Mastodon and everyone else lucky enough to have had their lives changed by the music that Brent brought to the world. – Rennie Jaffe/Relapse Records.”
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