An Atlanta Music Industry Tragedy

Brent Hinds, the renowned co-founder and former lead guitarist of the Atlanta-based metal band Mastodon, tragically lost his life in a motorcycle accident on August 20 in Atlanta, Georgia. The incident involved a Harley Davidson driven by Hinds colliding with a BMW SUV that failed to yield while making a turn at an intersection. He was 51 years old.

As the mastermind behind Mastodon's distinctive sound, Hinds played a pivotal role in shaping the band's identity since its inception in 2000 alongside bassist Troy Sanders, guitarist Bill Kelliher, and drummer Brann Dailor. In March, Billboard reported that the band had mutually decided to part ways with Hinds, although he claimed to have been ousted from the group.

Born William Brent Hinds on January 16, 1974, in Helena, Alabama, Hinds began his musical journey playing the banjo. His early experience left an indelible mark on his guitar style, giving him a unique hybrid picking technique and rapid-fire runs that have become synonymous with his signature sound.