It is with profound sadness that we acknowledge that Chad Gilbert (New Found Glory) has passed away after a five-year battle with cancer. He was 45.
Official Statement: On the morning of September 20th, Chad Everett Gilbert passed away peacefully in his sleep. He left this world surrounded by friends and family and took his final breaths with his wife and mother by his side, just as he wished. We are devastated and shocked by how quickly he left us, yet so grateful for how peacefully and smoothly he went. The amount of visitors that crowded the hospital lobby at a moment’s notice is a testament to how beloved and cherished Chad was, and always will be. He was a legendary musician, but his favorite accomplishment was being a husband and father. His biggest dreams came true. He is survived by his wife, Lisa, his daughter, Lily, his mother, Jackie, and his brother, Brian.
“Chad’s guitar playing, songwriting, humor, and relentless drive helped shape New Found Glory for nearly three decades. Through more than a dozen albums, endless tours around the world, and more accolades than we ever could have imagined, Chad challenged all of us to grow as musicians, performers, and human beings. While we are devastated to lose him, we are so grateful for the incredible life he lived, the memories we shared, and the brotherhood we had. His influence will always be part of New Found Glory and his spirit will be felt on every stage we stand on, with every note we play.”
Rest in peace, Chad. We love you forever ❤️
Lisa, Jordan, Ian, Cyrus, and Dan
Chad Gilbert was a legend and an absolute sweetheart. We met at a Terror show in 2003 and again a year later in Australia when the tours we were on crossed paths. He was larger than life. He was kind, funny, and despite all he had accomplished, he was humble and always down to help lift others. He liked @bridgenine and, for the next couple of decades, found dozens of ways for us to collaborate, doing more for my efforts than I could ever hope to do for his. Whether it was with New Found Glory, ISHC, his solo project with What’s Eating Gilbert, producing H2O albums, or his Violently Happy label… Few people have gone out of their way for the cause as Chad did, and I am so incredibly grateful for his friendship and support. Thank you for everything. You fought so hard and with such grace. You deserved so much more. I’m so glad I hugged you when I saw you last month. My thoughts and love go out to Chad’s family and New Found Glory. Hug your friends. Fuck cancer. Chad Gilbert, RIP.
-Chris Wrenn