[1] He graduated from Tempe's McClintock High School in 1979, and two years later, while attending Arizona State University, formed his first rock band with Bill Leen.

[3] By 1987, Hopkins and Leen formed Gin Blossoms, and in 1988, Jesse Valenzuela and Phillip Rhodes signed on as the band's second guitarist and drummer, respectively.

Shortly before his death, Hopkins appeared on stage with Dead Hot Workshop and Hans Olson in Tucson.

[citation needed] As Gin Blossoms experienced mounting success performing songs he had written, Hopkins became increasingly despondent.

Nine days later, after an intake consultation in the detox unit of Phoenix's St. Luke's Hospital, Hopkins purchased a .38 caliber pistol.

[6] Circa 2000, award-winning documentarian Mark Stanoch secured the rights to Hopkins’ music and story for a biopic potentially starring Ethan Hawke, but plans got bogged down.