Former Children Of Bodom singer and guitarist Alexi Laiho has died.
According to his label, Naplam, the Finnish musician passed away at home in Heklsinki last week. Although no cause of death was specified, the 41-year-old had reportedly been suffering from what were described as “long term health issues”.
Laiho founded Children Of Bodom in 1993, and led them until they split up at the end of 2019. In 2020, he formed a new band, Bodom After Midnight.
"We are crushed by the sudden passing of our dear friend and band member. Words cannot describe this shock and the profound sadness that we feel", said his Bodom After Midnight bandmates Daniel Freyberg, Mitja Toivonen and Waltteri Väyrynen.
Laiho’s wife, Kelli Laiho-Wright, said: "Alexi was the most loving and magnificent husband and father. Our hearts are eternally broken.”
Former Megadeth guitarist Marty Friedman is among those who’ve paid tribute to the late COB leader, describing himself as “gutted” at the news of his passing.
Absolutely gutted about Alexi Laiho`s very untimely passing. He had a lot more to left to say with his music.January 4, 2021
Rest In Peace to another musical hero. Without Children Of Bodom’s Something Wild, Hatebreeder, and Follow The Reaper - Trivium likely wouldn’t be here.You will be missed Alexi. Favorite Bodom song of all time? -Streams: 9am - 1pm, M-F https://t.co/YgoiEcsxT0 pic.twitter.com/umQ9frWGZcJanuary 4, 2021
Sad news. #AlexiLaiho created new possibilities in extreme metal with technically sophisticated solos that held their own alongside the best in more popularized metal genres. Didn’t know him well, but we had appearances together over the years. A good guy, far too young to goRIP https://t.co/Njxdpclrko pic.twitter.com/hUz45dClu1January 4, 2021
A hero of my generation! Such a talent. He will be missed! RIP Alexi 😢📸 by @BeckflashAndrea pic.twitter.com/xkTWhf8uUiJanuary 4, 2021
