The manager for Seth Binzer, known as Shifty Shellshock, says he 'tried' but 'failed' to save the Crazy Town frontman before he died of an accidental overdose at age 49.
- Jun 28, 2024
AceShowbiz - Shifty Shellshock, born Seth Binzer, was found dead in his Los Angeles home at the age of 49. His manager, Howie Hubberman, confirmed that the cause of death was an accidental overdose, caused by a mix of prescription and street-purchased drugs.
"Seth Binzer, after struggling with addiction and Crazy Town's rapid success with 'Butterfly', never was able to reach out on a more successful level to deal with his addictions," Hubberman told PEOPLE. "We all tried, but ultimately we all failed, or Shifty would still be here."
Known for their hit single "Butterfly", Crazy Town skyrocketed to fame in the early 2000s, with their debut album "The Gift of Game" peaking at No. 9 on the Billboard 200. Despite their success, Shifty's personal battles with addiction overshadowed much of his career. He appeared on VH1's "Celebrity Rehab" and its spin-off "Sober House", openly discussing his struggles.
In recent years, Binzer had moments of hope, often sharing his journey towards sobriety on social media. Just weeks before his death, he posted on Instagram, "I'm a lover than a fighter... but the one I need to love more, instead of fight with, is myself. #Sober, alive and grateful."
Despite these efforts, Shellshock's life remained turbulent. A recent arrest for driving under the influence, alongside a physical altercation with bandmate Bobby Reeves, highlighted his ongoing struggles. His tragic passing adds to the list of "Celebrity Rehab" alumni who have succumbed to their demons.
Shifty Shellshock's legacy in the music industry is undeniable. Fans took to social media to express their grief, with many reminiscing about the impact of "Butterfly" and other tracks. "Slide Along Side by Shifty Shellshock was always on my playlist as a kid," wrote one fan, while another added, "RIP Shifty Shellshock from Crazy Town. There's no denying Butterfly was an absolute banger."
Shifty's life serves as a stark reminder of the destructive power of addiction and the complexities of managing fame. As we reflect on his contributions to music, we also acknowledge the profound challenges he faced. Thank you, Seth Binzer, for the music and memories. Rest in peace.
