Did the Grammys really snub Brent Hinds during the In Memoriam segment on Sunday night, February 1? This question has sparked a significant conversation online, particularly after Alice in Chains bassist Mike Inez and numerous fans publicly criticized the Recording Academy for allegedly omitting Hinds from the live broadcast.
Understanding the Controversy
While the controversy surrounding Hinds’ omission from the televised segment has gained traction, it’s important to clarify that he was, in fact, included in the In Memoriam section on the Recording Academy’s official website. This has led to some confusion among fans and observers alike.
Brent Hinds: A Brief Biography
Brent Hinds, who tragically passed away in a motorcycle accident in August 2025, was a co-founder of the Atlanta-based heavy metal band Mastodon. Alongside bassist Troy Sanders, guitarist Bill Kelliher, and drummer Brann Dailor, Hinds helped create a unique sound that has garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated following since the band’s inception in 2000. By 2025, Mastodon had released eight albums and received a Grammy Award for their performance of “Sultan’s Curse” from the 2017 album, Emperor of Sand.
What Was Featured in the Grammys’ In Memoriam Segment?
During the broadcast, the Grammys honored a range of musicians who passed away in 2025. The segment included a powerful performance honoring Ozzy Osbourne, featuring a star-studded ensemble including Post Malone, Duff McKagan, Slash of Guns N’ Roses, Chad Smith of Red Hot Chili Peppers, and producer Andrew Watt. They delivered an abbreviated rendition of Black Sabbath’s iconic track, “War Pigs.”
Visual Limitations During the Broadcast
The tribute was presented from various camera angles; however, the close-ups of the performing artists meant that some names and images of musicians featured in the In Memoriam segment were not prominently displayed on screen. This may have contributed to the perception that Hinds was overlooked during the live broadcast.
Reactions from the Music Community
Mike Inez expressed his frustration on social media, calling out the Grammys for what he termed a “BIG party foul” in forgetting “the MIGHTY Brent Hinds in the ‘In Memoriam.'” His sentiments were echoed by Exodus and Slayer guitarist Gary Holt, who simply commented, “LAME” on Inez’s post, further highlighting the discontent within the rock community regarding this perceived oversight.
Mastodon’s Grammy Nominations and Achievements
Mastodon has a rich history with the Grammys, having won a Best Metal Performance award in 2018 for “Sultan’s Curse.” In addition to this accolade, the band has received five other nominations: Best Metal Performance in 2007 for “Colony of Birchmen,” Best Hard Rock/Metal Performance in 2012 for “Curl of the Burl,” Best Metal Performance in 2015 for “High Road,” Best Rock Album in 2018 for Emperor of Sand, and Best Metal Performance in 2022 for “Pushing the Tides.”
Conclusion
The debate over Brent Hinds’ omission from the Grammys’ In Memoriam segment reflects broader concerns about recognition in the music industry. While he was indeed acknowledged on the Recording Academy’s website, the live broadcast’s execution left some fans feeling that his contributions were overlooked. As the music community continues to discuss this issue, it serves as a reminder of the importance of honoring artists’ legacies in a meaningful way.
FAQs
Was Brent Hinds included in the In Memoriam segment of the Grammys?
Yes, Brent Hinds was listed in the In Memoriam section on the Recording Academy’s website, though some fans felt he was overlooked during the live broadcast.
What band did Brent Hinds co-found?
Brent Hinds co-founded the heavy metal band Mastodon in 2000.
What notable award did Mastodon win?
Mastodon won a Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance in 2018 for their song “Sultan’s Curse.”
Who criticized the Grammys for the omission of Brent Hinds?
Alice in Chains bassist Mike Inez and guitarist Gary Holt of Exodus and Slayer were among those who publicly criticized the Grammys for allegedly snubbing Hinds.
