The founder and lead singer of 3 Doors Down, Brad Arnold, has died. He was 47.
"With heavy hearts, we share the news that Brad Arnold, founder, lead singer and songwriter of 3 Doors Down passed away on Saturday, February 7, at the age of 47," a social media statement from the band read. "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."
Arnold launched 3 Doors Down in 1996 alongside Matt Roberts and Todd Harrell. The band is currently composed of Chris Henderson, Greg Upchurch, Chet Roberts and Justin Biltonen.
"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," the obituary read. "Brad's songwriting became a culture touchstone for a generation."
The statement 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."
Arnold announced last year that he had been diagnosed with stage IV kidney cancer.
"Got some not-so-good news for you today," Arnold said in a May 2025 Instagram video. "I've been sick a couple weeks ago, and went to the hospital and got checked out. I actually got the diagnosis that I had clear cell renal cell carcinoma that had metastasized into my lung."
While Arnold acknowledged that his stage IV diagnosis "wasn't real good," he planned to fight the illness.
"You know what? We serve a mighty god, and he can overcome anything," he said at the time. "I have no fear. I really, sincerely am not scared of it at all, but it is [going] to force us to cancel our tour this summer. We're sorry for that, and I'd love for you to lift me up in prayer every chance you get."
Brad is survived by his wife, Jennifer Arnold.
"He was a devoted husband to Jennifer and his kindness, humor and generosity touched everyone fortunate enough to know him," the band's statement continued. "Those closest to him will remember not only his talent but his warmth, humility, faith and deep love for his family and friends."
The statement concluded, "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."
Several of Brad's fellow musicians offered their condolences in the comments section.
"Rest easy legend ❤️," Danny Case replied, while Blackstone Cherry's official account added, "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."
Austin Snell, for his part, commented, "The literal sound of my childhood. Will forever look up to Brad for his talent and speaking the word of god."
