Alexi Laiho, former singer and guitarist of the Finnish metal outfit Children of Bodom, has died of complications due to unspecified ‘long-term health issues’, according to statements from his label. Napalm Records, and most recent orchestra. He was 41.
Laiho has been singer of the band Bodom After Midnight since his former band split in 2019.
“It is with heavy hearts and sadness that we have to announce the passing of Alexi Laiho,” reads a statement from Bodom After Midnight. “We are absolutely devastated and saddened by the sudden loss of our dear friend and band member.”
The Children of Bodom website also published a statement in honor of Laiho, which reads: ‘One of the most famous guitarists in the world, Alexi Laiho, has passed away. The musician, best known as the leading man of Children of Bodom, is in his last week in Helsinki, Finland, Laiho. During his last years, he had long-term health issues. More than 25 years of friendship. We lost a brother. The world has lost a phenomenal songwriter and one of the greatest guitar players of all memories and Alexi’s music will live on forever. Our thoughts are with Alexi’s family during this difficult time. “
Children of Bodom was formed in 1993 by Laiho and drummer Jaska Raatikainen under the band IneartheD, which eventually changed their name to one derived from an unsolved Finnish murder case in which two teenagers were killed in 1960 at Bodom Lake. Over the years, the group has released 10 studio albums of classical Scandinavian metal, combining elements of thrash and classical metal with classical music. After the band split in 2019, Laiho and rhythm guitarist Daniel Freyberg formed Bodom After Midnight.
“We are devastated by the sudden passing of our dear friend and band member. Words cannot describe this shock and the deep sadness we feel,” Body After Midnight bandmates Freyberg, Mitja Toivonen and Waltteri Vayrynen said in a statement.
“Alexi was the most loving and beautiful husband and father. Our hearts are broken forever,” said his wife, Kelli Wright-Laiho.