Children of Bodom Guitarist Alexi Laiho dead at 41

By: Staff –

Alexi Laiho of Childen of Bodom on March 1st, 2020 in Helsinki Finland. (Photo: Terhi Ylimäinen)

Children of Bodom frontman Alexi Laiho has died. The guitarist died in his home in Helsinki, Finland, last week. Laiho had suffered from long-term health issues during his last years.

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 farewell concert in December of 2019. Last year, Laiho put together Bodom After Midnight, who recorded three songs and shot one music video, which will be released 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 Gods and several other international prizes, the guitarist was also the main star, leading a group of one hundred guitar players at Helsinki Festival in 2015 in “100 Guitars From Hel” – a massive concert piece he composed.

“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,” said Daniel Freyberg, Mitja Toivonen and Waltteri Väyrynen of Bodom After Midnight.

The talented guitarist and musician relished his roles as stepdad in his patchwork 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.”