Tributes Pour In for Brent Hinds Following His Untimely Passing

In the wake of Brent Hinds’ tragic death on August 20, 2025, many in the music community have expressed their sorrow and shared memories of the ex-Mastodon guitarist and vocalist. Hinds lost his life in a motorcycle accident, prompting heartfelt tributes from friends, fellow musicians, and fans alike. Among those paying tribute is Bush frontman Gavin Rossdale, who reflected on his friendship with Hinds and acknowledged the significant impact the musician had on his life, particularly in relation to his struggles with Xanax.

Gavin Rossdale Remembers Brent Hinds

On August 23, 2025, Rossdale took to social media to honor Hinds, describing his passing as “terrible and useless.” He recounted how Hinds played a crucial role in helping him avoid a return to the dangerous world of Xanax addiction. Rossdale wrote:

“We lost Brent. This is just terrible and useless. What a musician. And he was directly responsible for stopping me on a self-sabotage back to the fatally dangerous world of Xanax when our paths crossed that I had already escaped. He spoke about its actual deadly effects—the slowing down of the body, the barely breathing. I will always be grateful for that advice. This life can be ended in a literal moment. I should have taken guitar lessons from Brent.”

Fans and fellow musicians responded with supportive comments, sharing their own experiences and condolences. One user noted the profound impact of losing someone whose wisdom had positively influenced their life, while others expressed gratitude for Rossdale’s candid acknowledgment of his past struggles with Xanax.

Community Response to Hinds’ Passing

Tributes extended beyond Rossdale, with many fans and friends reflecting on Hinds’ character and contributions. Former Between the Buried and Me guitarist Dustie Waring and others shared their memories and condolences, emphasizing the deep void left by his passing. One Mastodon follower reminisced about their personal connection to Hinds, highlighting the positive influence he had on those around him.

Gavin Rossdale’s Journey with Xanax

This isn’t the first time Gavin Rossdale has spoken about his struggles with Xanax and Hinds’ influence on his recovery. In June 2023, during an appearance on Steve-O’s podcast, he opened up about his four-year addiction to the drug, detailing the toll it took on him and the dangerous path he was on before meeting Hinds.

“I was addicted to Xanax for, like, four years or something like that when I was working a lot internationally… I decided I should stop, so I just stopped and I did two weeks where every night, it was like I’d been in a shower [from sweating] and then I got into bed.”

During this podcast, Rossdale shared a pivotal moment when he met Hinds at a music festival. Hinds’ candid conversation about the dangers of Xanax helped Rossdale choose to stay away from it, showcasing the profound impact Hinds had on his life.

Brent Hinds’ Legacy and Impact

Brent Hinds, known for his unique guitar skills and contributions to Mastodon, was a figure who inspired many. In a 2022 interview, Hinds discussed his own struggles with anxiety and addiction, revealing his journey to overcome them. His openness about these challenges resonates with many, emphasizing his role as a supportive figure for others facing similar battles.

Reflections from Mastodon

In the aftermath of Hinds’ passing, Mastodon shared their grief, highlighting the complexity of their long-term relationship. During a recent concert, drummer Brann Dailor expressed heartfelt sentiments, stating, “We loved him so, so, so very much… we were brothers to the end.” This candid acknowledgment speaks to the deep bond they shared despite any past conflicts.

Conclusion

The loss of Brent Hinds is felt deeply across the music community. His contributions to rock and metal, along with the personal connections he forged, have left a lasting legacy. Friends like Gavin Rossdale continue to share their stories, reminding us of the importance of support and understanding in the face of addiction and mental health challenges. As tributes continue to pour in, Hinds’ memory will undoubtedly inspire future generations of musicians and fans alike.

FAQs

What happened to Brent Hinds?

Brent Hinds passed away in a motorcycle accident on August 20, 2025, in Atlanta, Georgia.

How did Gavin Rossdale honor Brent Hinds?

Gavin Rossdale posted a heartfelt tribute on social media, reflecting on Hinds’ impact on his life, particularly regarding his struggles with Xanax.

What influence did Brent Hinds have on others?

Hinds was known for his candid discussions about addiction and mental health, providing support and wisdom to fellow musicians like Gavin Rossdale.

How did Mastodon respond to Hinds’ passing?

Mastodon expressed their grief during a concert, emphasizing the strong bond they shared with Hinds despite any past disagreements.