Finnish singer and guitarist Alexi Laiho of the Finnish black metal band “Children of Bodom”, perform during the “#100guitarsfromHEL” concert in Helsinki on August, 14, 2015

(Photo by MARKKU ULANDER/LEHTIKUVA/AFP via Getty Images)

News of guitarist and lead vocalist of Children of Bodom, Alexi Laiho, has been released to the public after he passed away last week in his home in Helsinki, Finland.

Laiho, who suffered from long-term health issues that troubled him in his last years, passed suddenly at the age of 41.

“One of the most renowned guitarists in the world, Alexi Laiho, has passed away. More than 25 years of friendship. We lost a brother,” Children of Bodom said in a statement. “The world lost a phenomenal songwriter and one of the greatest guitarists of all time. Memories and Alexi’s music will live forever.”

Children Of Bodom had very recently split before Laiho’s death, who had left with guitarist Daniel Freyberg to start Bodom After Midnight. Children of Bodom had played their final show on December 15th and Laiho’s other group had just finished recording their first three-song release and a music video which are still slated to be published.

“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,” penned the members of Bodom After Midnight.

1 of the most renowned guitarists in the world, Alexi Laiho, has passed away. More than 25 years of friendship. We lost a brother. The world lost a phenomenal song writer and one of the greatest guitarists of all time. Memories and Alexi’s music will live forever.

— Children Of Bodom (@cobhc) January 4, 2021

“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,” said Laiho’s sister.