Chad Gilbert, the founding guitarist behind pop-punk mainstays New Found Glory, has passed away. The musician died peacefully in his sleep on September 20, with his wife, Lisa, and mother, Jackie, by his side.
The band announced Gilbert's passing in an emotional social media post, revealing that he was surrounded by loved ones during his final moments.
“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.”
As one of the driving forces behind New Found Glory, Gilbert helped bring the band's blend of melodic hooks, chunky guitar riffs, and energy to a generation of listeners.
Gilbert co-founded New Found Glory in 1997 alongside vocalist Jordan Pundik, bassist Ian Grushka, and original drummer Joe Marino, who was later replaced by Cyrus Bolooki. The band would go on to become a cornerstone of the early 2000's pop-punk explosion, building a dedicated following through a steady stream of releases and seemingly endless touring.
His musical contributions extended well beyond New Found Glory. Before the band's rise to prominence, Gilbert fronted influential hardcore outfit Shai Hulud, and he would later revisit those heavier roots with International Superheroes of Hardcore. He also established himself as a producer, working with several notable acts throughout the punk and alternative music scenes.
While his influence on pop-punk is undeniable, Gilbert's bandmates made it clear that his legacy goes far beyond the music they created together.
“Chad’s guitar playing, songwriting, humor, and relentless drive helped shape New Found Glory for nearly three decades,” the band shared. “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.”
The group also reflected on the brotherhood they shared with Gilbert, acknowledging that although his loss leaves an enormous void, his presence will remain a part of New Found Glory for as long as the band continues making music.
“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.”
Gilbert is survived by his wife, Lisa, his daughter, Lily, his mother, Jackie, and his brother, Brian.
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