Chad Gilbert, New Found Glory’s Founding Guitarist, Dead at 45
Longtime member and lyricist of Florida pop-punk group revealed in March that he was battling brain cancer
Chad Gilbert's passing at 45 is a shock to the music world, particularly the pop-punk community that grew up with New Found Glory's catchy, high-energy tunes. As a founding member and guitarist, Gilbert played a crucial role in shaping the band's sound and was a key contributor to their lyrics. His untimely death from brain cancer, a diagnosis he shared publicly just a few months ago, serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of supporting cancer research.
New Found Glory was a staple of the early 2000s pop-punk scene, alongside bands like Blink-182, Green Day, and Sum 41. Their music addressed themes of love, heartbreak, and teenage angst, resonating with a generation of young people. Gilbert's guitar work and vocal harmonies were an integral part of the band's signature sound, and his influence can still be heard in many contemporary pop-punk bands. As the music industry mourns his loss, fans will be revisiting classic albums like "From the Screen to Your Stereo" and "Sticks and Stones" to celebrate his legacy.
What's next for New Found Glory remains uncertain, but it's likely that the band will continue to pay tribute to Gilbert's memory in their future endeavors. Fans will be watching to see how the remaining members choose to honor his legacy, whether through new music, live performances, or charitable initiatives. In the broader music landscape, Gilbert's passing also highlights the importance of cancer awareness and research, as well as the need for support systems for musicians and artists navigating health challenges.
Originally reported by rollingstone.com. MusicNewsletter adds analysis for culture, style & media readers.