A very famous musician has died aged 47. Brad Arnold, the lead singer of 3 Doors Down, died “peacefully” in his sleep, while surrounded by his family, after bravely battling kidney cancer.
The star, a founding member of the band, died earlier today. In a statement shared on social media, the band said: “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. As a founding member, vocalist, and original drummer of 3 Doors Down, Brad helped redefine mainstream rock music, blending post-grunge accessibility with emotionally direct songwriting and lyrical themes that resonated with everyday listeners.
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“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. 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.
“Above all, he was a devoted husband to Jennifer, and his kindness, humour, and generosity touched everyone fortunate enough to know him. 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.” Paying tribute, Seven Dust said: “Rest now brother. Thank you for all you have given us.” Creed added: “Sending love to the Arnold and 3DD family.”
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Black Stone Cherry said: “We are so very sorry. Brad was always such a top-notch, class act to us. Even before we were anything at all- he supported us. Such a huge loss, and our prayers go out to his family and band.” While Corey Lowery added: “Words are always tough right now. But what I can say is, we love you, Brad and are gonna miss you. It was a honored to know you and tour with you. Thank you for such an inspiration in faith through you and your music. Both are powerful and timeless. Praying for the family, band mates and friends. May Jesus welcome and hold you now. RIP Brad Arnold.”
In May last year, he told fans he had been diagnosed with clear cell renal carcinoma, which had progressed to stage four. He told fans: “Got some not so good news for you today. So, I’d been sick a couple of weeks ago and then went to the hospital and got checked out, and actually got the diagnosis that I had a clear cell renal cell carcinoma that had metastasised into my lung. And it’s stage four, and that’s not real good.”
He went on to add: “But you know what? We serve a mighty God, and he can overcome anything. So I have no fear. I really sincerely am not scared of it at all. But it is gonna force us to cancel our tour this summer. And we’re sorry for that. And I’d love for you to lift me up in prayer every chance you get. And I think it is time for me to go listen to It’s Not My Time a little bit, right?”
The song which Brad referenced was, of course, It’s Not My Time by 3 Doors Down, one of their biggest hits, which was certified triple-platinum and topped the Adult Contemporary and Mainstream Rock airplay charts in 2008 and hit Number 1 on the Hot 100.
Brad is survived by his wife, Jennifer. Formed in Escatawpa, Mississippi, back in 1996, the group found huge success with the release of their debut single, Kryptonite, in 2000, which peaked at Number Three on the Billboard Hot 100, preceding their debut album, The Better Life, which became the 11th best-selling record of the year. Former guitarist Matt Roberts tragically died aged 38 on August 20, 2016, following an accidental prescription drug overdose.
Meanwhile, the band performed at the inauguration concert for President-elect Donald Trump on January 20, 2017, which Arnold said he was “proud” of and believed it would be a “good experience”.
The Macmillan Support Line offers confidential support to people living with cancer and their loved ones. If you need to talk, call us on 0808 808 0000.
If you have been affected by this story, Cruse Bereavement Support offers free help to make sense of how you are feeling. Click here for their website or call 0808 808 1677.
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