The metal world has been shocked by the news that Alexi Laiho has died at age 41. The former frontman of Children of Bodom had reportedly battled health issues for the past several years and passed away at his home in Finland in late December 2020. The official announcement came on 5 January 2021 and a formal cause of death has yet to be disclosed, beyond health complications being cited.

Tributes have been pouring in from fans and fellow artists, mourning the tragic loss of this gifted musician and wonderful human being. Described as a visionary who had mastered the difficult art of helping extreme music appeal to mainstream fans, Laiho was truly unique in his field. His kind-hearted, artistic and gentle nature was beloved by all that were privileged to know him.

Laiho’s wife, Kelli Wright-Laiho, has taken to Instagram to thank everyone for their thoughts and condolences during this difficult time. The couple had only recently celebrated their third wedding anniversary last month. 

Children of Bodom, originally called Inearthed, was formed in 1993 by Laiho and drummer Jaska Raatikainen. Their first album, “Something Wild,” dropped in 1997 after the addition of pianist Janne Wirman, which gave them a melodic edge that was rarely seen in death metal. The band would go on to release a further nine studio albums and two live albums, as well as compilations, two EPs, and a cover album in 2009.

In 2019, Children of Bodom officially disbanded, citing creative differences within the group. Less than a year later, Laiho and former Children of Bodom guitarist Daniel Freyberg formed the supergroup Bodom After Midnight. Also joining them were bassist Mitja Toivonen (Santa Cruz), drummer Waltteri Väyrynen (Paradise Lost) and keyboardist Lauri Salomaa. The group performed only one live show in October 2020 in Finland and officially recorded three songs which are yet to be officially released. With Laiho’s passing, the future of Bodom After Midnight is unknown at this time.

Laiho’s passing leaves a huge hole in not only the lives of those close to him, but the entire musical community. He will be sadly missed, but never forgotten, thanks to his incredible legacy.

Author: Harley Houghton

Harley Houghton is a writer and blogger, based in Melbourne, Australia. Her passions include music, especially metal, gaming and comics. Check out her blog www.harleysmadhouse.com and follow her on Twitter.