Former Mastodon Singer-Guitarist Brent Hinds Dies at 51

Former singer-guitarist for the acclaimed metal band Mastodon, Brent Hinds, has tragically passed away at the age of 51 from a fatal motorcycle accident in Atlanta, according to both the band and local authorities. Hinds lost his life late Wednesday night while riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle, colliding with a BMW SUV that failed to yield during a turn, leaving Hinds unresponsive at the scene.

Heartbreak and shock flooded the band’s social media pages as they struggled to come to terms with the unexpected loss of Hinds, a vital creative force within the group. Describing the immense impact he had on their shared music, the band reminisced on the many triumphs, milestones, and success they experienced alongside Hinds throughout the years. Mastodon rose to prominence with three albums hitting the Top 10 on 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.

Named Mastodon upon its formation in 2000, the band was co-founded by Hinds along with bassist Troy Sanders, guitarist Bill Kelliher, and drummer Brann Dailor. The release of their third studio album in 2006, “Blood Mountain,” marked a pivotal moment as it became their first record to reach the Top 40, peaking at No. 32 on the Billboard 200.

In a turn of events, Hinds made the decision to part ways with the band in March 2025, leaving behind a legacy without providing a reason for his departure. Despite the band’s public statements about a mutual agreement to go their separate ways, Hinds’ comments on social media hinted at underlying tension within the group. While the band remained proud of their shared history and music, they extended their well wishes to Hinds in all his future endeavors.

Mastodon received six Grammy Award nominations over the years, with a notable win in 2017 for the best metal performance on “Sultan’s Curse” from the album “Emperor of Sand.” Rolling Stone hailed the band’s 2011 release, “The Hunter,” as one of the best albums of the year, praising their ability to channel complex and eccentric elements into a seamless blend of thrash and progressive rock.

Hinds was slated to embark on a European tour later in the year with Fiend Without a Face, a band that he concurrently played with alongside his tenure in Mastodon. His tragic passing undeniably rocked the metal community and served as a somber reminder of the uncertainties of life.