It always hits home when someone whose music we appreciate es on, and on a personal note it hits harder when they’re around my age. It really makes you appreciate what you have and that you should make the most of it. Alexi Laiho did just that with his 41 years. As well as founding and fronting the very well known Children of Bodom act for 25 years, he made plenty of time for his family.
The full press release follows, and apologies for the date of his ing in the title being ambiguous – the report only says that he died “last week”.
As ever, our thoughts go out to his family, friends and crewmates who I know will be saddened and shocked at his untimely death. And as ever we will Alexi with a sample of the music he left us – a difficult choice from such a huge collection! I was always a huge fan of their covers of other well-known songs, which is what drew my ear to the band in the first place.
Gone, but never forgotten, another metal legend.
Header image by Marek Sabogal
One of the most renowned guitarists in the world, Alexi Laiho, has ed away. The musician, most notably known as the front man 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.
Alexi Laiho and drummer Jaska Raatikainen founded Children of Bodom in 1993, and the band was one of the most internationally acclaimed metal acts in Finland up until their very last farewell concert in December of 2019. Last year Alexi Laiho put together Bodom After Midnight, who recorded three songs and shot one music video, which will be released later on posthumously.
Besides Children of Bodom, Laiho was known for acts such as Warmen, Sinergy, Kylähullut and The Local Band. Awarded with a Metal Hammer Golden God and several other international prizes, the guitarist was also the main star, leading a group of one hundred guitar players at the Helsinki Festival in 2015 in “100 Guitars From Hel” – a massive concert piece he composed.
“We are crushed by the sudden ing of our dear friend and band member. Words cannot describe this shock and the profound sadness that we feel”, Daniel Freyberg, Mitja Toivonen and Waltteri Väyrynen from Bodom After Midnight state.
The talented guitarist and musician relished his role as stepdad in his family, and as uncle and godfather. Especially during the last years, the important family ties brought a welcomed balance to his life and the active touring. Laiho was particularly close with his big sister, parents and his sister’s daughter. Laiho’s sister says:
“We are all absolutely shocked and devastated. We ask for privacy and understanding during these hard times. My little brother’s funeral will take place privately.”
Alexi Laiho will also be deeply missed by his family in Australia.
“Alexi was the most loving and magnificent husband and father. Our hearts are eternally broken”, Kelli Wright-Laiho says.
