3 Doors Down founder Brad Arnold has died.
The rock band took to social media on Saturday to share the news that the lead singer has passed away. He was 47.
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In a statement, they shared that Arnold “passed away peacefully” with his beloved wife Jennifer and his family by his side, “surrounded by loved ones, in his sleep after his courageous battle with cancer.” The band continued, “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.”

“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,” read the statement. “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 was born on Sept. 27, 1978 in Escatawpa, Missouri. He is a founding member of 3 Doors Down, along with lead guitarist Matt Roberts and bassist Todd Harrell, forming the band in 1996. With rhythm guitarist Chris Henderson also part of the band, 3 Doors Down released their first studio album, The Better Life, in 2000 and included hit singles “Kryptonite,” “Loser,” and “Duck and Run.” They would go on to release six albums total and bring on several more band numbers, with their most recent being 2016’s Us and the Night.
In 2025, Arnold announced that he had been diagnosed with stage 4 clear cell renal cell carcinoma, a form of kidney cancer that had metastasized to his lungs. Due to the diagnosis, all scheduled performances were canceled. In an Instagram video, Arnold referenced their song “It’s Not My Time,” saying that he truly believes it. “This’ll be a battle so we need our prayers warriors!” he said. “Thank y’all for the best fans in the world. We love y’all!”
In the statement from 3DD, they said that Arnold “was a devoted husband to Jennifer, and his kindness, humor, 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. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.”








