Metal, Hardcore, Indie, Rock
During the 68th Annual GRAMMY Awards’ ‘In Memoriam’ segment, while Ozzy Osbourne‘s tribute garnered significant positive reception, a notable omission deeply disappointed many metal fans, as per MetalSucks. The absence of former Mastodon guitarist Brent Hinds from the tribute clearly angered Alice In Chains bassist Mike Inez. In an Instagram post, Inez criticized the GRAMMY organizers for overlooking Hinds, especially considering the inclusion of ex-KISS guitarist Ace Frehley and the tribute to Ozzy.
BIG party foul Grammys for forgetting the MIGHTY Brent Hinds in the In Memoriam. #mastodon
Brann Dailor, Hinds’ former bandmate, expressed his support for Inez’s remarks with a series of fire emojis, and Exodus guitarist Gary Holt simply labeled the oversight as “LAME.” Pearl Aday, daughter of the late Meatloaf, also commented, stating that her father was not recognized by the GRAMMYs in the year of his passing. It’s possible that Hinds’ image was briefly visible during the Ozzy tribute, but this fleeting recognition was not broadcast to viewers. Considering the purpose of the ‘In Memoriam’ segment is to honor those who have passed, it seems counterintuitive to place such a strong emphasis on living performers.
Hinds tragically passed away on August 20, 2025, following a car accident while riding his Harley Davidson. As per an official police report regarding the incident, Hinds was struck by an SUV that neglected to yield while turning at the intersection of Memorial Drive SE and Boulevard SE, located near downtown Atlanta. Officers discovered him alive and breathing, yet unresponsive. He was later pronounced dead at Grady Memorial Hospital. He was 51 years old.
Hinds was a founding member of Mastodon since the band’s formation in 2000, where he played a pivotal role in crafting the band’s distinctive sound and style. Having contributed to every album released by the band, it came as a surprise when he was expelled from the group last March. Subsequently, Hinds openly expressed his frustration and anger towards his former bandmates, despite the band’s initial statement indicating that all parties “mutually agreed to part ways.”
