Former Mastodon singer-guitarist Brent Hinds dies at 51 in motorcycle crash
Mastodon enjoyed major success with three albums breaking into the Top 10 of the Billboard 200 chart and two albums securing the number one spot on the Rock Album chart. Notably, their albums “Emperor of Sand” in 2017 and “Once More ’round the Sun” in 2014 were significant achievements in their career.
Tragically, Brent Hinds, the former lead singer and guitarist of Mastodon, passed away in a motorcycle accident in Atlanta at the age of 51. The incident occurred when Hinds was riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle late at night, and a BMW SUV driver failed to yield while making a turn. Atlanta police reported Hinds as “unresponsive” at the scene, and an autopsy revealed that he succumbed to “multiple blunt force injuries.”
The band expressed profound sorrow and shock at the loss of their creative force, with whom they shared numerous triumphs and music that resonated with many individuals. Mastodon, which he co-founded in 2000 with Troy Sanders, Bill Kelliher, and Brann Dailor, reached new heights with their third studio album, “Blood Mountain,” breaking into the Top 40 on the Billboard 200 chart, peaking at No. 32.
In a surprising turn of events, Hinds departed from the band in March 2025 without a specific reason provided. The band announced their mutual decision to part ways, although Hinds’ social media comments suggested a strained relationship with his former bandmates. Despite the separation, Mastodon expressed pride and gratitude for the music they created together and wished Hinds success and happiness in his future endeavors.
Throughout their career, Mastodon received recognition with six Grammy Award nominations, securing a win in 2017 for Best Metal Performance with “Sultan’s Curse” from the album “Emperor of Sand.” Notably, Rolling Stone magazine lauded their 2011 album “The Hunter,” praising the band’s ability to blend thrash and complexity seamlessly.
Hinds was preparing to embark on a European tour later in the year with Fiend Without a Face, a band that emerged as a side project during his time with Mastodon. His untimely passing leaves a significant void in the music industry and among fans who admired his talent and contribution to the heavy metal genre. Hinds’ legacy as a versatile musician and impactful artist will endure through his memorable performances and the music he created with Mastodon.