Brent Hinds, the lead guitarist and co-vocalist of Mastodon, is one of the most distinctive personalities in modern metal. Known for his eccentric humor, brutally honest interviews, and offbeat way of looking at the world, Hinds often leaves fans with unforgettable lines. His words, whether about music, tattoos, or life on the road, reflect his raw and authentic personality. Here are some of the most notable Brent Hinds quotes that capture who he is both as a musician and a person.
1. Brent Hinds on Music and Guitar Playing
Hinds’ approach to guitar is unconventional, and he often describes it in ways only he can:
- “I never wanted to sound like anyone else. If you can tell it’s me playing after just two notes, then I’ve done my job.”
- “I don’t really practice scales or theory. I just play from the gut — that’s where the music lives.”
- “The guitar is like a paintbrush. Some people want to paint clean lines, I like making big messy strokes.”
2. Brent Hinds on Mastodon
As a founding member of Mastodon, Hinds has strong opinions about the band’s evolution:
- “Mastodon was never meant to fit into any category. We just wanted to make the kind of music we’d want to hear.”
- “Every record we do is different. If we ever made the same record twice, I’d quit.”
- “Playing with these guys is like being in a family. Sometimes it’s dysfunctional, but it’s real.”
3. Brent Hinds on Tattoos and Identity
Brent’s body art is a huge part of who he is, and he often speaks about it:
- “Tattoos are my way of writing my autobiography — only it’s on my skin instead of on paper.”
- “Every tattoo I have tells a story, even if it’s a ridiculous one.”
- “People ask me why I get so many tattoos. I tell them: ‘Why not? It’s my body, my canvas.’”
4. Brent Hinds on Life and Philosophy
Hinds has a unique outlook on life, often mixing humor with brutal honesty:
- “I don’t care about being famous. I just care about being happy and playing music.”
- “Life is too short to be normal. Weird is where the fun is.”
- “If you can’t laugh at yourself, then you’re already doing life wrong.”
5. Brent Hinds on Touring and the Rock Lifestyle
The road is an important part of his career, and he has plenty to say about it:
- “Touring is like being in a circus. You never know what’s going to happen, and you never really go home.”
- “Being on stage is the only place where everything makes sense.”
- “Yeah, it’s hard, but I wouldn’t trade this life for anything.”
6. Brent Hinds on Creativity
As a true artist, Hinds often speaks about creativity and inspiration:
- “Creativity is about letting go. The best riffs come when you stop trying too hard.”
- “Inspiration doesn’t come from sitting in a room thinking. It comes from living.”
- “Art is supposed to be imperfect. If it’s too perfect, it’s boring.”
Final Thoughts on Brent Hinds Quotes
The words of Brent Hinds reveal a musician who values authenticity, individuality, and raw creativity above all else. Whether he’s talking about his guitar playing, his tattoos, or his approach to life, these Brent Hinds quotes give fans a glimpse into the mind of one of rock’s most eccentric and innovative figures.
For Mastodon fans and music lovers alike, Hinds’ words are just as powerful as his riffs — bold, honest, and impossible to forget.
