Children Of Bodom frontman Alexi Laiho dies aged 41

Finnish guitarist and vocalist Alexi Laiho, best known as the frontman of melodic death metal band Children Of Bodom, has died at the age of 41. No cause of death has so far been revealed.

The news was shared by his former bandmates on Facebook, who wrote: “One of the most renowned guitarists in the world, Alexi Laiho, has passed away. The musician, most notably known as the frontman of Children of Bodom, died in his home in Helsinki, Finland, last week. Laiho had suffered from long-term health issues during his last years.”

“More than 25 years of friendship. We lost a brother. The world lost a phenomenal songwriter and one of the greatest guitarists of all time. Memories and Alexi’s music will live forever.”

The post is signed by drummer Jaska Raatikainen, bassist Henkka Seppälä and keyboardist Janne Wirman.

Laiho was Children Of Bodom’s lead guitarist and vocalist since their inception in 1993. The band played their last show in 2019 in Helsinki. After this, the band split, with Laiho and guitarist Daniel Freyberg continuing on in the new band Bodom After Midnight.

Bodom After Midnight also shared a statement, writing: “It is with heavy hearts and great sadness that we have to announce the passing of Alexi Laiho. We are absolutely devastated and heartbroken for the sudden loss of our dear friend and band member.”

Statement from Bodom After Midnight:

It is with heavy hearts and great sadness that we have to announce the passing of Alexi Laiho. We are absolutely devastated and heartbroken for the sudden loss of our dear friend and band member.

Daniel, Mitja & Waltteri pic.twitter.com/AohWJpfnFg

— Napalm Records (@NapalmRecords) January 4, 2021

According to Finnish website Itlta Sanomat, Laiho recorded three songs with this new project, which are to be released posthumously.

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