From Guitar World · · 1m 20s
Brent Hinds' estate fights Mastodon over money and image
The late guitarist's family says the band owes him compensation and shouldn't use his likeness without permission.
In brief
The late guitarist's family says the band owes him compensation and shouldn't use his likeness without permission. The lawsuit isn't about album artwork alone, but whether Hinds' estate deserves ongoing revenue shares after his exclusion from the band. Originally reported by Guitar World.
Hinds left the band, then died
Brent Hinds departed Mastodon in March 2023 and passed away months later. The band has since released their first album without him, Marrow Deep.
Estate sues over $80,000 buyout
Hinds' estate filed a complaint claiming he was entitled to an $80,000 buyout when he left the group, but never received it before his death.
Band denies wrongdoing, vows defense
Mastodon issued a statement strongly denying allegations of ill intent and said they would vigorously defend what they believe is a meritless lawsuit.
“strongly deny allegations of ill intent”
Image use reveals bigger issue
Mastodon used Hinds' recognizable image to market the new album without the estate's consent, raising questions about his ongoing entitlement to merchandising revenue.
“Brent remains relevant to Mastodon's brand even after his exclusion and death”
Estate: can't have it both ways
The estate contends Mastodon cannot invoke Hinds' identity when commercially useful while simultaneously denying his continuing relevance when accounting for his interests.
Family seeks compassion amid fight
The estate says the lawsuit doesn't ask fans to choose sides and calls for compassion while the legal process moves forward. The family has faced personal attacks and harassment.
The short version
The lawsuit isn't about album artwork alone, but whether Hinds' estate deserves ongoing revenue shares after his exclusion from the band.
