Alexi Laiho, former singer and guitarist of the Finnish metal band “Children of Bodom,” died due to complications from unspecified “long-term health issues,” according to his label, Napalm Records, and most recent band. He was 41.
Laiho had also been the guitarist of the band “Bodom After Midnight” since his former band broke up in 2019.
Bodom After Midnight said in a statement, “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.”
Children of Bodom’s website also paid tribute to Laiho, writing, “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 band added. “The world lost a phenomenal songwriter and one of the greatest guitarists of all time. Memories and Alexi’s music will live forever. Our thoughts are with Alexi’s family during this difficult time.”
Laiho and drummer Jaska Raatikainen formed Children of Bodom in 1993 under the band IneartheD.
Over the years, the band released 10 studio albums of classic Scandinavian metal, combining elements of thrash and classic metal with touches of classical music,” according to NBC News.
After the band split in 2019, Laiho and guitarist Daniel Freyberg founded Bodom After Midnight.
Bodom After Midnight bandmates Freyberg, Mitja Toivonen, and Waltteri Vayrynen said in a statement, “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.” Laiho’s wife, Kelli Wright, said, “Alexi was the most loving and magnificent husband and father. Our hearts are eternally broken.”
