Brad Arnold, the founder of 3 Doors Down, has died at the age of 47. Brad passed away on February 7, “in his sleep after his courageous battle with cancer,” his bandmates shared in a heartbreaking statement.
“With heavy hearts, we share the news that Brad Arnold, founder, lead singer, and songwriter of 3 Doors Down, passed away on Saturday, February 7th, at the age of 47. With his beloved wife Jennifer and his family by his side, he passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, in his sleep after his courageous battle with cancer,” the statement read.
“Above all, he was a devoted husband to Jennifer, and his kindness, humor, and generosity touched everyone fortunate enough to know him,” his bandmates Chris Henderson, Greg Upchurch, Chet Roberts, Justin Biltone shared.
“Those closest to him will remember not only his talent, but his warmth, humility, faith, and deep love for his family and friends. The family is deeply grateful for the outpouring of love and support during this difficult time and kindly asks that their privacy be respected. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.”
© Getty ImagesFormed in 1996 in Escatawpa, Mississippi, the band’s debut single “Kryptonite”, peaked at number three on the Billboard Hot 100 and was an instant hit, becoming a Grammy-nominated song.
Their debut album, The Better Life, was released on February 8, 2000 and became the 11th best-selling album of the year. Follow up singles included “When I’m Gone” and “Here Without You”.
In May 2025, Brad shared the news that he had been diagnosed with terminal cancer. “We serve a mighty God and he can overcome anything, so I have no fear,” Brad told fans at the time. “I really, sincerely am not scared of it at all.”
The statement praised Brad for his helping to “redefine mainstream rock music, blending post-grunge accessibility with emotionally direct songwriting and lyrical themes that resonated with everyday listeners”.
“Brad’s songwriting became a cultural touchstone for a generation, producing some of the most enduring hits of the 2000s, including the band’s breakout hit, “Kryptonite,” which he wrote in his math class when he was just 15-years-old,” it continued. “His music reverberated far beyond the stage, creating moments of connection, joy, faith, and shared experiences that will live on long after the stages he performed on.”
© gie KnaepsTributes poured in from fans and celebrity friends. “Thank you Brad, for all of the wonderful music you gave us here on earth. Now go sing with Jesus,” commented one follower, as another shared: “I hoped so badly not to have to read this message… 3 Doors Down was the soundtrack of my personal coming of age story.”
3 Doors Down canceled their 2025 tour with other 2000s rock bands Creed, Nickelback and Daughtry, after the news of his cancer emerged.
Brad had battled alcoholism during his life, and became sober in 2016.
The family of Charlie Daniels shared their prayers for Brad in 2025, revealing that the late musician had “saved Brad’s life,” helping get him into rehab.
“Brad has been sober for over nine years now, and today he shared his cancer diagnosis with the world, and we want to lift Brad up in prayer for healing. The best part is that he’s done the most important healing already, and that is his spiritual healing and his faith in the power of Jesus,” Charlie’s family wrote on social media.
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