By admin 
HangupsMusic.com – The world of pop-punk is mourning the profound loss of Chad Gilbert, the foundational guitarist and primary lyricist for the iconic Florida band New Found Glory, who passed away on September 20 at the age of 45. Gilbert’s death, confirmed by his bandmates and wife Lisa Cimorelli, marks the culmination of a courageous and public battle against cancer, which he openly shared with fans and the media, beginning with a liver cancer diagnosis in 2021 that later progressed to brain cancer earlier this year. His passing leaves an irreplaceable void in the hearts of his family, friends, and the countless musicians and fans whose lives he touched over nearly three decades of relentless creativity and musical innovation. The band’s poignant announcement highlighted the peaceful nature of his final moments, surrounded by his closest loved ones, a testament to the deep affection he inspired.
In a heartfelt statement released across social media platforms, New Found Glory recounted the somber morning of September 20th, when Chad Everett Gilbert "passed away peacefully in his sleep." The band emphasized that he departed "surrounded by friends and family and took his final breaths with his wife and mother by his side, just as he wished." The shock of his swift departure was palpable within their message, yet it was tempered by gratitude for the serene nature of his passing. The outpouring of support, evidenced by the "amount of visitors that crowded the hospital lobby at a moment’s notice," underscored the profound impact Gilbert had on those around him. Beyond his celebrated musical career, the band noted that his "favorite accomplishment was being a husband and father," revealing the personal dreams he cherished and ultimately fulfilled.
Gilbert’s journey into the annals of music history began in 1997 when, at just 17 years old, he co-founded New Found Glory alongside vocalist Jordan Pundik, bassist Ian Grushka, and drummer Stephen Klein. From their inception, Gilbert quickly emerged as the band’s indispensable creative engine, penning the majority of their lyrical content and crafting the distinctive guitar riffs that would define their sound. His songwriting prowess was instrumental in shaping pop-punk anthems that resonated with a generation, including perennial favorites like "My Friends Over You" and "Head on Collision." These tracks, characterized by their infectious melodies, relatable narratives, and explosive energy, not only became staples of New Found Glory’s extensive discography but also helped to cement the band’s status as pioneers of the burgeoning pop-punk movement of the late 1990s and early 2000s.
His bandmates eloquently articulated Gilbert’s enduring influence, stating, "Chad’s guitar playing, songwriting, humor, and relentless drive helped shape New Found Glory for nearly three decades." They reflected on a career that spanned "more than a dozen albums, endless tours around the world, and more accolades than we ever could have imagined." Gilbert, they affirmed, constantly challenged them "to grow as musicians, performers, and human beings." While grappling with the profound sadness of his loss, they expressed immense gratitude "for the incredible life he lived, the memories we shared, and the brotherhood we had." They concluded with a powerful testament to his lasting presence: "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."
Beyond his primary role in New Found Glory, Gilbert’s artistic reach extended across the vibrant pop-punk landscape. He was a sought-after collaborator, lending his talents to other prominent acts. His distinctive guest vocals graced a track on Fall Out Boy’s seminal 2005 album, From Under the Cork Tree, a record widely considered a cornerstone of the genre. He also contributed his signature guitar riffs to Fall Out Boy’s 2007 song "The Take Over, The Breaks Over," further solidifying his reputation as a respected figure within the scene. Gilbert’s personal life also drew public attention, particularly his on-again, off-again relationship with Paramore lead singer Hayley Williams, culminating in their marriage from February 2016 to late 2017. These connections highlighted his central position within a tight-knit community of musicians who collectively shaped the sound of a generation.
The news of Gilbert’s passing sent ripples through the music world, prompting an outpouring of tributes from peers and admirers alike. Among the first to share his sorrow was Blink-182 frontman Mark Hoppus, who himself navigated a public battle with lymphoma after a 2021 diagnosis. Hoppus’s heartfelt Instagram post described Gilbert as "the best friend to every person he met" and "the most positive and creative force in any room he walked into." Drawing on his own experience with severe illness, Hoppus praised Gilbert’s remarkable resilience, noting that "These past years he fought his sickness with the soul of a joyous, courageous warrior." His message concluded with a poignant farewell: "You’ll be sorely missed by more people than you could ever imagine. See you on the other side."
Gilbert’s battle with cancer was a journey he faced with remarkable candor and an unwavering positive spirit. Initially diagnosed with liver cancer in 2021, he announced in March that the disease had metastasized to his brain, presenting a new and formidable challenge. This progression ultimately impacted his ability to perform, as he experienced a loss of sensation on the left side of his body due to three tumors pressing against his brain. During the 2026 Vans Warped Tour stop in Washington, D.C., New Found Glory paused their set to acknowledge their absent bandmate, calling out, "Give it up for Chad!" — a moment that underscored the profound impact of his illness on both the band and their devoted fanbase.
Despite the arduous nature of his treatment, Gilbert maintained a forward-looking perspective. In an interview with Rolling Stone in April, he openly discussed his cancer journey, expressing a resilient hope. "It felt good to know that there’s still a battle to be going on and that I can recover from this and grow stronger from this," he shared at the time. He and his wife, Lisa Cimorelli, detailed a promising treatment plan that included innovative immunotherapies aimed at preventing the cancer’s spread within his brain. Even in the face of such adversity, Gilbert’s optimism shone through. He acknowledged the inevitable "crying moments where, like everyone, I have to let it out," but emphasized his desire "to turn it around into something positive." His ultimate goal, he stated, "It’s always been just to inspire and grow a community of people that want to go to our shows and smile and have a good time."
Chad Gilbert’s legacy is not merely etched in the impressive discography of New Found Glory or his significant contributions to the broader pop-punk movement. It is also found in the enduring spirit of resilience, positivity, and genuine connection he fostered throughout his life. As a songwriter, he articulated the joys and anxieties of youth with an authenticity that resonated deeply. As a musician, his distinctive guitar work became a hallmark of a genre. As a person, his courage in the face of unimaginable challenges and his commitment to inspiring others served as a powerful testament to his character. Though his physical presence may be gone, the indelible mark Chad Gilbert left on music, and on the hearts of those who knew him, will undoubtedly continue to echo for generations to come.
