Mastodon guitarist Bill Kelliher has paid tribute to his late bandmate, Brent Hinds. In an Instagram post on Monday, Kelliher shared his feelings about Hinds’ passing. “It’s been hard to get a grip on my emotions this week,” he wrote. “We had our good and bad times, just like any relationship. I never thought you’d be taken from us like this. You were a true guitar wizard.”
Brent Hinds was with Mastodon from the band’s start in 2000 until he left in March 2025. He passed away on August 20 at the age of 51 due to multiple blunt force injuries, as reported by Georgia’s Fulton County medical examiner. The Atlanta Police Department noted that a man died while riding a motorcycle that night.
Kelliher continued, “You were a brother, we were a family. You were a wild man not to be tamed. You weren’t perfect, but you were always DIRTY-B!! Your spirit lives on through your music. I will miss your crazy a.”
Mastodon announced Hinds’ death on August 21, expressing their heartbreak and shock. They reflected on the many memories and music they created together. The band honored him during their concert in Alaska on August 22.
Deftones also paid tribute to Hinds during their concert in Vancouver on August 22, dedicating the song “Entombed” to him. Fans continue to remember Hinds for his unique talent and the impact he had on the music world.
