New Found Glory honors Chad Gilbert at his happy place
The world of pop-punk mourned the loss of a true icon, and in honoring the memory of guitarist Chad Gilbert, New Found Glory decided to find a place where his legend could shine brightest. Following Gilbert’s passing at the age of 45, the band announced plans to return to the stage at a place that meant the world to him: EPCOT at the Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida.
In an Instagram post, the group shared their gratitude for the overwhelming outpouring of love and tribute they received during those difficult days. They reflected that seeing the devotion offered by fans reaffirmed how deeply Gilbert touched countless lives, knowing he would be immensely proud of the support.
In a move that spoke volumes about his passion, New Found Glory made the decision to cancel their planned appearance at the Aftershock Festival in Sacramento. They felt that a different kind of tribute was needed—one dedicated to Gilbert’s greatest love: the Disney magic he adored.
“We rarely cancel shows, but this felt needed,” the band stated. “Anyone who knew Chad knew how much he loved Disney. Our shows at Epcot were dates he was so excited for, and he was actively planning to be on stage. Taking the stage at Epcot feels like the right way to honor him, and what he would want us to do.”
The decision was rooted in Gilbert’s deep love for the Disney experience. He was a massive fan, and the band wanted to honor that connection by bringing their music to his happiest place on Earth. They emphasized that every note played and every word sung at the resort was dedicated to their late friend.
During their two-day run at EPCOT, New Found Glory performed six different sets, showcasing beloved anthems that captured the spirit of the band and the joy of the Disney setting. Fans got to experience classics like “Something I Call Personality,” “All About Her,” “A Love Song,” “Failure’s Not Flattering,” and “Dressed to Kill.”
The performances took place during the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival, where the band shared the stage with other acts, including Element and Smash Mouth, further cementing the atmosphere of celebration and community.
The legacy of Chad Gilbert extended far beyond the music he made. His impact on the broader musical world was profound, and those who knew him spoke about his influence and attitude that guided the genre forward. His connection to others, including those who shaped the culture around him, is a powerful reminder of the lasting impact of a truly unique personality.
In a touching tribute, Hayley Williams, Paramore’s ex-wife, shared her feelings about Chad. She noted that she felt sure that life is made of the paths we cross, and the reasons we cross them are infinite. She lauded Gilbert for his contribution to the musical world, emphasizing that his influence made life richer for many of us.
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