Brad Arnold, 3 Doors Down Singer Who Played Trump’s Inauguration, Dies At 47

Brad Arnold, the founder and lead singer of the popular band 3 Doors Down, has died at the age of 47.

The band released a statement to X on Saturday. “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,” the statement continued.

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— 3 Doors Down (@3doorsdown) February 7, 2026

“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, 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 statement concluded, adding the family is “deeply grateful” for the love and support.

“He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.”

Arnold announced in May 2025 that he had been diagnosed with Stage 4 clear cell renal cell carcinoma and that 3 Doors Down would be canceling their summer tour. Despite the serious diagnosis, the singer said he had “no fear.”

While not overtly political, 3 Doors Down played at the “Make America Great Again Welcome Celebration” ahead of President Trump’s inauguration in 2017. When asked about playing the event when other musicians steered clear, Arnold told reporters, “Man, it’s all about America. We’re proud to be here.”

“We love America, man. This is gonna be a great experience. It’s a great honor to be here and we’re proud to be here,” he added.

The singer struggled with alcoholism in the past, but later committed to sobriety and became an outspoken Christian, even sharing that message from the stage. In August 2024, he made headlines for preaching the Gospel during a concert in Hershey, Pennsylvania.

Before performing “Away from the Sun,” Arnold addressed the audience, saying: “I feel like I can identify with this song more than most of our songs. … This world surrounds [us with] a message we’ll never be good enough, we’ll never be strong enough, we’ll never be beautiful enough, we’ll never be rich enough.”

“My friends, I just want to take a second to tell you, that’s an absolute lie. You are loved. You are enough, and you will win. Not only can you win, but you will win. You’ll always be enough for one reason. And that’s because Jesus Christ loves you.”