Chad Gilbert dies of cancer
Chad Gilbert, the driving force behind the iconic sound of New Found Glory, has passed away at the age of 45. The news came yesterday, September 20, announcing that Gilbert “passed away peacefully in his sleep,” surrounded by the people he held dearest, including his wife, Lisa Cimorelli, and his mother, Jackie.
The passing of Gilbert is a profound loss to the music world, but for those who knew him, it is a celebration of a life defined by relentless energy and creative passion. For nearly three decades, Gilbert’s guitar playing, songwriting, and sheer drive were the engine that fueled New Found Glory, shaping the sound that became a defining presence in the pop-punk landscape.
Gilbert’s journey was marked by significant personal challenges. Six months prior to his passing, he had revealed that he had been battling brain cancer for more than fifteen years. His fight included multiple surgeries, beginning in 2010 after the discovery of “suspicious cells” and continuing with several cancer-related procedures starting in 2021. In March, he underwent surgery to remove three tumors, a testament to his incredible resilience.
Beyond his medical battles, Gilbert’s legacy is rooted in the community that fostered his creativity. He co-founded New Found Glory as a teenager in South Florida, helping forge the melodic yet hard-hitting sound that would define the genre. The band’s landmark 2002 album, Sticks and Stones, which featured the chart-topping hit “My Friends Over You,” became a cornerstone of the pre-MySpace pop-punk era and heavily influenced the easycore movement.
The longevity of New Found Glory, which spanned over two decades, speaks to the powerful bond among the members. Gilbert often spoke about the freedom this longevity brought, noting that the camaraderie forged in the South Florida punk and hardcore scene was central to the group’s existence. He emphasized that the group’s success was built on shared experiences, not external pressures.
Gilbert’s influence extended beyond his band. He was also an active participant in the hardcore scene, having played in bands like Shai Hulud and International Superheroes of Hardcore, and released solo music under the moniker What’s Eating Gilbert.
Throughout his career, Gilbert balanced his public life with deep personal connections. He was married to Lisa Cimorelli, with whom he shared the joys of raising their daughter, Lily, and his brother, Brian. His relationships enriched his life, including a time spent with Hayley Williams of Paramore.
In his final statement, New Found Glory members reflected on the indelible mark Gilbert left. They noted that his influence will remain inseparable from the band, asserting that his spirit will be felt on every note played on every stage.
Rest in peace, Chad. The world of music will remember a true legend.
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