Seth Binzer, known as Shifty Shellshock, the frontman of Crazy Town, famous for the hit song “Butterfly,” has died at 49. According to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s website, Binzer passed away at his home on Monday (24th). The cause of death has not been disclosed.
Crazy Town’s biggest success came with their 1999 single “Butterfly,” which topped the U.S. Billboard Hot 100. The band’s debut album, The Gift Of Game, sold 1.6 million units. Despite breaking up in 2003, Crazy Town reformed in 2007 and released their third album, The Brimstone Sluggers, in 2015. TMZ reports Bret “Epic” Mazur, who formed Crazy Town with Binzer, revealed he spoke with the singer a few months before his passing, addressing he had a positive headspace, looking forward to the future and making new music.
Binzer struggled with addiction both privately and in the public spotlight, appearing on VH1’s Celebrity Rehab and Sober House. He pursued a solo career, collaborating with Paul Oakenfold on the 2002 hit “Starry Eyed Surprise,” and by 2004, he released his debut solo album, Happy Love Sick was released.
Shifty Shellshock is survived by his three children, Halo, Gage, and Phoenix. Our thoughts go with Binzer’s family and friends during this difficult time.
Crazy Town co-founder Bret “Epic” Mazur issued the following statement:
“It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we have learned the passing of our dear friend and brother, Seth Binzer. As the other half of Crazy Town, Seth’s incredible talent and larger-than-life personality left an indelible mark on all who knew him and on the music we created together. Seth struggled with the challenges of maintaining sobriety throughout his life, a battle that he continuously fought privately and publicly. Despite the hardships, he brought immense joy and energy into the lives of those around him. I wish with all my heart that his story could have ended differently, but we find solace in the hope that Seth has finally found the peace he was searching for so desperately all these years. Our Crazy Town family and I treasure the core memories from our younger years, the highs and lows, the laughter and the lessons and each moment contributed to who we are today. Seth’s journey, marked by struggle, was also filled with moments of incredible creativity and love. I want to take a quick moment to stress the importance of sobriety. For nearly 18 years, I have walked a sober path, and I urge anyone struggling to seek help and support, from myself or someone you trust. There is always hope, and a chance for a better tomorrow. We will miss Seth more than words can express. His spirit will live on in the music we made and in the hearts of those who loved him. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this incredibly difficult time. Rest in peace, Seth. You will always be remembered and cherished. With love and sorrow….God speed…ya’ boy Bret “Epic” Mazur”
