Seth Binzer, better known by his stage name Shifty Shellshock and the voice behind the hit single "Butterfly," has died at 49.
According to Breitbart News, Seth Binzer's passing was confirmed by the Los Angeles Medical Examiner on Monday.
Seth, the lead vocalist of the rock band Crazy Town, was acclaimed for his charismatic stage presence and unique vocal style. Formed in 1995 with Brett Mazur, Crazy Town achieved significant success in the late 1990s and early 2000s, particularly with their chart-topping single "Butterfly."
The single "Butterfly" skyrocketed to the number one spot on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 and also enjoyed success in several other countries. It became iconic, marking its place as a memorable tune of the era.
According to reports, "Butterfly" also captured the top charts in Austria, Denmark, and Norway, symbolizing the international appeal of the band under Seth’s leadership.
Despite his professional success, Seth Binzer struggled significantly with health and addiction issues throughout his life. His battles included a widely publicized addiction to drugs, which often overshadowed his musical career.
In a bid to confront his addiction, Seth appeared on the reality television shows "Celebrity Rehab" and "Sober House," where his struggles with substance abuse were documented in a raw and unfiltered light. These appearances helped to highlight the challenges faced by individuals fighting addiction.
In 2012, a particularly difficult year, he was hospitalized after falling into a coma, a stark incident that again focused media attention on his health battles more than his musical contributions.
Seth's issues with the law were also notable, including a 2012 arrest related to battery and cocaine possession. Despite these challenges, Seth continued to perform, showing his dedication to music and his fans.
The last notable live performance by Seth with Crazy Town was at the Hell And Heaven festival in Toluca, Mexico, in March 2020. His energetic performance was well received, showcasing his enduring talent and appeal.
Seth Binzer’s personal life, marked by his role as a father to three children—Halo, Gage, and Phoenix—adds a poignant note to his biography. He was remembered fondly by those close to him as a passionate and caring individual. As confirmed by official sources, the specific cause of Seth’s death has not yet been determined.
SKY News reflects on his most famous song: "It quickly became a 00s anthem," capturing the essence of an era with its catchy hooks and memorable lyrics. The untimely demise of Seth Binzer marks the end of a significant chapter in the story of Crazy Town and its influence on the music scene of the early 2000s. Although plagued by personal demons, his contributions to music portrayed a rare blend of raw emotion and catchy pop sensibilities.
Seth Binizer's life, marked by soaring musical highs and profound personal lows, leaves a complex legacy. His music, particularly the phenomenal success of "Butterfly," will continue to influence and entertain new generations, while his struggles serve as a cautionary tale about the perils of addiction.
