Seth Binzer, known as Shifty Shellshock, the frontman of Crazy Town, has died at the age of 49. The Los Angeles rapper, famed for hits like “Butterfly,” was found dead at his home this week. The cause of death was revealed as an accidental overdose, involving a combination of prescription and street drugs, according to the band’s manager, Howie Hubberman.
Hubberman expressed the collective effort to help Binzer overcome his addiction issues, stating, “We all tried, but ultimately we all failed, or Shifty would still be here.” Despite appearing on VH1’s Celebrity Rehab and Sober House, Binzer struggled with substance abuse throughout his life.
Los Angeles medical officials have yet to officially confirm the cause of death. However, Hubberman mentioned that the combination of drugs was responsible for Binzer’s untimely demise. He described Binzer as a friend who earnestly wanted to overcome his addictions but lacked the necessary tools and support.
Shifty Shellshock leaves behind three children, including one with his ex-wife Jasmine Lennard. His death adds to the tragic history of Crazy Town, making him the third band member to pass away.
The rapper’s career began in the 90s when he and Bret Mazur formed Crazy Town, initially named Brimstone Sluggers. The band achieved significant success with their 1999 debut album The Gift of Game, propelled by the hit single “Butterfly,” which topped the Billboard Hot 100. Despite this early success, their subsequent album, Darkhorse (2002), did not achieve the same level of acclaim, leading to the band’s breakup in 2003.
Binzer also pursued a solo career, collaborating with British producer Paul Oakenfold on the 2002 hit “Starry Eyed Surprise,” and releasing his solo album Happy Love Sick in 2004. Crazy Town reunited in 2007 and later became Crazy Town X in 2017 after lineup changes.
Shifty’s final social media posts hinted at his ongoing battle with sobriety. In one post, he wrote about the need to love himself more, captioning a picture with, “I’m a lover than a fighter…but the one I need to love more instead of fight with is myself.”
Friends and industry peers have expressed their sorrow and paid tribute to Shifty. Actress Alice McMunn reflected on his decade-long struggle with addiction, while producer Nikki Minton, a longtime friend, expressed her sadness under his last social media post, saying, “I have no words for how sad this is. My friend for more than half my life. I’m going to miss him.”
Shifty Shellshock’s death marks a poignant end to a life marked by both notable musical achievements and persistent personal battles. His contributions to the music world and his fight against addiction will be remembered by fans and friends alike.
