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Brad Arnold, the lead singer and co-founder of rock band 3 Doors Down, has died at age 47, the band announced Saturday.
He died “peacefully” in his sleep on Saturday “after his courageous battle with cancer,” the band shared on social media. His wife, Jennifer, and his family were by his side, according to the post.
Arnold was a founding member of 3 Doors Down as both its lead singer and original drummer. The band had major chart success in the 2000s and was known for hits including “Here Without You,” “It’s Not My Time” and “Kryptonite” — which he wrote at the age of 15.
“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,” the band said in a tribute.
He was remembered as a “devoted husband” and for his “kindness, humor, and generosity.”
“Those closest to him will remember not only his talent, but his warmth, humility, faith, and deep love for his family and friends,” the tribute said. “He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.”
Condolences poured in on social media from other rock stars.
Singer Chris Daughtry wrote: “Sending my love to the Arnold family. Rest easy brother. You will be missed.” The band Creed added, “Sending love to the Arnold and 3DD family.”
“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,” the band Black Stone Cherry wrote. “Such a huge loss and our prayers go out to his family and band.”
Arnold had announced in May that he had Stage 4 kidney cancer.
He said in an Instagram video at the time that he was sick and doctors had diagnosed him with clear cell renal carcinoma that metastasized into his lung. He also announced the band’s tour would be canceled.
“I’d love for you to lift me up in prayer every chance you get. It’s time for me to go listen to ‘Not My Time’ a little bit, right?” Arnold said.
Arnold formed 3 Doors Down in Escatawpa, Mississippi, in 1996 with Matt Roberts and Todd Harrell. The band rose to fame in early 2000, when its hit song “Kryptonite” charted third on the Billboard Hot 100.
Marlene Lenthang is a breaking news reporter for NBC News Digital.
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