Chad Gilbert, founding guitarist and longtime songwriter for New Found Glory, has died at the age of 45.
The news was announced Sunday, September 20, in a joint statement from New Found Glory and Gilbert’s wife, Lisa Cimorelli. According to the statement, Gilbert passed away peacefully in his sleep Sunday morning surrounded by friends and family, with his wife and mother by his side.
“We are devastated and shocked by how quickly he left us, yet so grateful for how peacefully and smoothly he went. He was a legendary musician, but his favorite accomplishment was being a husband and father. His biggest dreams came true.”
Gilbert had been undergoing treatment for cancer since 2021. Earlier this year, he underwent emergency brain surgery after three tumors were discovered. He returned to the stage with New Found Glory in June, performing “Hit or Miss”and “My Friends Over You” during the band’s Nashville show.
A founding member of New Found Glory, Gilbert helped form the band in South Florida in 1997 and remained a central part of its sound and songwriting for nearly three decades. Through albums including ‘New Found Glory’, ‘Sticks and Stones’ and ‘Catalyst’, the band became one of the defining acts of the early-2000s pop-punk movement.
Before New Found Glory, Gilbert also served as vocalist for influential hardcore band Shai Hulud. His career extended beyond performing, with Gilbert working as a producer with numerous artists throughout the punk and alternative scene.
Reflecting on his impact on New Found Glory, his bandmates wrote:
“Chad’s guitar playing, songwriting, humor, and relentless drive helped shape New Found Glory for nearly three decades.”
The band added that Gilbert‘s influence “will always be part of New Found Glory” and that his spirit will continue to be felt in their future performances.
Gilbert is survived by his wife Lisa, daughter Lily, mother Jackie and brother Brian.
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