Reports have confirmed that Mastodon co-founder Brent Hinds has died at the age of 51. Hinds was involved in a tragic motorcycle accident in Atlanta on August 20th. 

The tragic news follows overnight speculation that began to spread online and has since been confirmed via an Atlanta news report published this morning (August 21st). 

Hinds announced his departure from Mastodon earlier this year and while the relationship had grown contentious in recent months, Hinds spoke of his tenure with Mastodon positively calling it a "wild fucking ride". 

During his generational run with Mastodon, Hinds played an integral part of the band's widespread success. Releasing eight universally acclaimed albums with Mastodon, Hinds' style and signature sound set him apart from his contemporaries and positioned Mastodon as an shining example of American metal. 

Hinds was a multiple Grammy-nominee as part of Mastodon of which the band took home hardware in 2018 for best Metal Performance for "Sultan's Curse" from the Emperor of Sand album. 

The remaining members Mastodon have since issued a collective statement in the wake of the tragedy. The band shared, “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.

RIP Brent.”

This story is developing.