# Bill Kelliher on writing with Brent Hinds

> Mastodon's guitarist reveals the creative tension and self-destructive behavior that made songwriting with late bandmate Brent Hinds increasingly difficult.
- Title: Bill Kelliher on writing with Brent Hinds · Guitar World
- Summary: Mastodon's guitarist reveals the creative tension and self-destructive behavior that made songwriting with late bandmate Brent Hinds increasingly difficult…
- Keywords: mastodon, bill kelliher, brent hinds, songwriting, band conflict, guitar, marrow deep, mastodon breakup, Bill, Kelliher, writing, Brent
- Source: Guitar World — https://guitarworld.com/artists/bands/bill-kelliher-on-songwriting-with-brent-hinds
- Published: 2026-09-19T16:00:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: mastodon, bill kelliher, brent hinds, songwriting, band conflict, guitar, marrow deep, mastodon breakup
## Kelliher reflects on Hinds partnership
Bill Kelliher says writing with late Mastodon guitarist Brent Hinds felt like a one-sided competition that became increasingly difficult over time.

> With Brent, it was always a competition, which I didn't understand.
## The approval problem
Kelliher constantly questioned whether Hinds would like new material, but eventually Hinds rejected nearly everything they created together.

> I always had to think, 'Is Brent gonna like this?' And pretty soon, he didn't like anything.
## Hinds' self-destructive streak
Despite being a great guitarist and songwriter, Hinds had a self-destructive personality that made him increasingly disconnected from the band's mission.

> He was interesting, a great fucking guitar player and songwriter, but it was difficult to write with him.
## Different ends of the spectrum
Kelliher and Hinds had opposing approaches to guitar and personality, though they shared some common ground. Hinds' unpredictability defined early Mastodon but eventually wore thin.

> We were on totally different ends of the spectrum as far as guitar and personality.
## Relief after Hinds' exit
When Hinds left Mastodon in March 2024, Kelliher felt a weight lifted despite doing most of the songwriting. The band improved after his departure.

> Honestly, it was like a big weight had been lifted.
## Mastodon moves forward
The band released Marrow Deep, their first album after Hinds' death, which serves as both a tribute and a fresh start. They've added Baroness guitarist John Baizely to their live lineup.
## Legal dispute with Hinds' estate
Mastodon now faces a lawsuit from Hinds' estate claiming they financially benefited from his image after his death. The band has strongly denied the allegations.
## Key takeaway

Kelliher felt constant pressure to please Hinds during songwriting, but Hinds eventually rejected everything they created, making collaboration nearly impossible.