The world of heavy metal music is mourning the loss of William Brent Hinds, the celebrated guitarist, songwriter, and co-founder of the Grammy Award-winning band Mastodon, who tragically died in a motorcycle accident in Atlanta on Wednesday night, August 20, 2025. He was 51.
According to Atlanta police, Hinds was riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle when a BMW SUV failed to yield while making a turn at the intersection of Memorial Drive and Boulevard around 11:35 p.m. The Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office later confirmed his death.
Hinds, widely recognized as one of the most innovative and influential guitarists of his generation, co-founded Mastodon in 2000 alongside bassist Troy Sanders, guitarist Bill Kelliher, and drummer Brann Dailor. Over the past two decades, the Atlanta-based band earned international acclaim, releasing eight studio albums and winning a Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance in 2018 with “Sultan’s Curse” from their album Emperor of Sand (2017).
Mastodon issued a heartbreaking statement on social media, expressing devastation over the loss of their friend and bandmate:
“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.”
Known for his distinctive guitar style, which blended elements of sludge, progressive, and Southern rock, Hinds helped shape Mastodon’s unique sound and contributed to its rise as one of the most respected modern metal bands. His contributions extended far beyond riffs and solos—he was a driving force in the band’s songwriting, pushing creative boundaries and captivating audiences worldwide.
Tributes have poured in from across the music industry, with fellow musicians, fans, and collaborators remembering Hinds not only as a legendary guitarist but also as a passionate performer and a larger-than-life personality. Many described him as a fearless creative spirit, unafraid to experiment and carve his own path in a genre he helped redefine.
In addition to his work with Mastodon, Hinds was known for side projects and collaborations, constantly exploring new sounds and expanding his artistic reach. Off stage, he was loved by friends and family for his humor, warmth, and authenticity.
His passing marks a monumental loss for the heavy metal community, Atlanta’s music scene, and fans around the globe who found inspiration and connection in his work.
Brent Hinds’ legacy will live on through the groundbreaking music he created, the performances that electrified audiences, and the indelible mark he left on heavy metal history.
