Ex-Mastodon Guitarist Brent Hinds Has Died

Former Mastodon guitarist and vocalist Brent Hinds died on Wednesday (Aug. 20) in a motorcycle accident in the band's hometown of Atlanta, Atlanta News First reports.

Hinds was riding his Harley Davidson when the driver of a BMW SUV failed to yield while making a turn, police said.

The Fulton County medical examiner's office confirmed Hinds' death. He was 51.

Mastodon Respond to Death of Brent Hinds

Mastodon responded to Hinds' death on Thursday (Aug. 21) in an Instagram post, which you can see below.

"We are in a state of unfathomable sadness and grief ... last night Brent Hinds passed away as a result of a tragic accident," they 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."

How Long Was Brent Hinds in Mastodon?

Born on Jan. 16, 1974, Hinds formed Mastodon in 2000 alongside bassist/vocalist Troy Sanders, guitarist Bill Kelliher and drummer/vocalist Brann Dailor. The lineup remained intact for 25 years and released some of the most acclaimed progressive metal albums of the 21st century, including Leviathan, Blood Mountain and Crack the Skye.

READ MORE: The 25 Best Progressive Metal Albums of the 2000s (Ranked)

Mastodon announced Hinds' departure in March 2025.

"Friends and fans: After 25 monumental years together, Mastodon and Brent Hinds have mutually decided to part ways," they wrote. "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. We are still very inspired and excited to show up for fans in this next chapter of Mastodon. As we move forward, all 2025 touring plans will remain intact. We look forward to seeing you on the road."

READ MORE: The 11 Best Prog-Metal Albums of the 2020s (So Far)

Mastodon played their first post-Hinds show with guitarist and YouTuber Ben Eller and later continued performing live with progressive metal guitarist Nick Johnston.

In the months following his departure, Hinds insisted that the split was neither mutual nor amicable. He referred to Mastodon as "a shit band with horrible humans" and took specific aim at Sanders and Dailor, claiming they "can't sing together live or anywhere else i the world ... everything they try to sing in the studio is manipulated by autotune because they're incapable of singing in key."

What Bands Did Brent Hinds Play With After Mastodon?

Hinds quickly resumed playing with several other bands following his Mastodon exit, working with Fiend Without a Face, West End Motel and Dirty B & the Boys. All three bands shared a stage in April at Atlanta's Wild Heaven Garden Club during an event dubbed "An Evening With Brent Hinds."

Musically (and often personally), Hinds brought an edge of unpredictability to Mastodon. His blistering harsh vocals and vivacious guitar playing — which combined sludgy riffs, fluid leads, banjo-style fingerings and psychedelic excursions — left an indelible mark on the band's sound.