Announcement of Passing
On the morning of September 20, 2024, Chad Everett Gilbert passed away peacefully in his sleep, according to a joint statement released by his wife, Lisa Cimorelli, and New Found Glory official site. The announcement, posted on the band’s social media channels, confirmed the loss of the 45‑year‑old musician without providing further details about the cause of death.
Career Highlights
Gilbert co‑founded New Found Glory in 1997 while attending Florida State University. The band quickly became a cornerstone of the pop‑punk movement, blending melodic hooks with energetic guitar work. Gilbert’s role extended beyond lead guitar; he contributed backing vocals and co‑wrote many of the group’s most beloved tracks.
Key Albums and Songs
- Nothing Gold Can Stay (1999) – The debut record that introduced the world to the band’s raw, youthful sound.
- Sticks and Stones (2002) – Featured the breakout single “My Friends Over You,” a staple on alternative radio.
- Catalyst (2004) – Showcased more polished production while retaining the band’s signature energy.
- Coming Home (2006) – Marked a shift toward a slightly more mature lyrical approach.
- Radiosurgery (2011) – Demonstrated Gilbert’s evolving guitar techniques and solidified the band’s longevity.
Throughout his tenure, Gilbert also produced records for other acts, including the pop‑punk outfit AllMusic biography highlights his work behind the console.
Impact on the Pop Punk Genre
Gilbert’s guitar style combined crisp, palm‑muted power chords with melodic leads that influenced a generation of musicians. Critics have credited his approach with helping define the sound of early‑2000s pop punk, a period that saw the genre break into mainstream charts. His contributions are often cited alongside peers such as Mark Hoppus of Blink‑182 and Tom DeLonge of Box Car Racer.
Signature Techniques
- Use of clean arpeggios during verses to create contrast with heavy choruses.
- Layered vocal harmonies that added depth without overwhelming the instrumentation.
- Strategic tempo changes that kept songs dynamic and radio friendly.
These techniques are dissected in numerous guitar tutorials and have become standard study material for aspiring pop punk players.
Tributes from Band and Peers
Following the announcement, New Found Glory posted a heartfelt tribute, describing Gilbert as “a true friend, a dedicated husband, and an unstoppable creative force.” The band also announced a series of benefit shows in his honor, with proceeds directed to the family’s chosen charity.
Fellow musicians quickly voiced their condolences. Rolling Stone obituary captured statements from artists such as Hayley Williams, who called Gilbert “a beacon of authenticity in a noisy world,” and Mark Hoppus, who noted that “the pop punk community will never be the same without his riffs.”
Billboard coverage highlighted a social media trend where fans shared screenshots of favorite live moments, underscoring the personal connection Gilbert forged with audiences.
Personal Life and Legacy
Beyond the stage, Gilbert was known for his dedication to family. Married to Lisa Cimorelli, the couple often shared behind‑the‑scenes glimpses of life on tour, emphasizing balance between music and home life. Friends describe him as generous, often mentoring younger bands and offering studio time at his own expense.
Gilbert’s legacy extends into charitable work as well. He supported music education programs in his hometown of Coral Springs, Florida, and participated in annual benefit concerts for youth music initiatives.
Enduring Influence
As the pop punk scene continues to evolve, Gilbert’s catalog remains a reference point for both fans and musicians. Streaming platforms report a surge in plays of New Found Glory tracks in the weeks following his death, indicating renewed interest in the band’s discography.
Future generations will likely encounter his work through music history courses, guitar lessons, and the countless playlists that keep his songs alive. While his physical presence is no longer with us, the melodies he helped craft will continue to resonate for years to come.
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