Shifty Shellshock, Frontman of Crazy Town, Dead at 49

Crazy Town singer Shifty Shellshock has died aged 49. The musician, born Seth Binzer, was discovered at his home on Monday. according ABC7, citing the Los Angeles County Coroner. No further details have been released regarding the circumstances of his death.

Binzer co-founded Crazy Town with Bret Mazur in 1999 after making music together under different names for a few years. The rap-rock group found success relatively quickly, releasing their debut album, The gift of playin November 1999 and scored their first Number One single in March 2001 with “Butterfly”, which features a sample from one-time bandmates the Red Hot Chili Peppers.

“Peppers is a huge inspiration to us,” Binzer said Rolling rock in 2001, detailing the support Anthony Kiedis offered when he turned to substance abuse during a particularly rough breakup. “Anthony found me and took me to lunch – where I tried to borrow money from him so I could rest. I didn't get over my rage for a few days, but it showed me that I had people who were concerned and cared about me. Anthony is this angel who appeared in my life.”

Crazy Town broke up briefly in 2003 after their second album, Black Horseand Binzer released his debut solo album, Happy Love Sick, in 2004. The record included “Starry Eyed Surprise”, his collaboration with British producer and musician Paul Oakenfold. He also acted for a short time in the 90s, after taking part in a Levi's commercial on the road.

Shellshock had been open about his struggles with addiction and appeared on two seasons of VH1 Celebrity rehabilitation and two seasons of his next show Sober Houseduring which he discussed his journey soberly.

Binger left behind three children, Halo, Gage and Phoenix.