3 Doors Down lead singer Brad Arnold dies at 47 after battling cancer

ESCATAWPA, MISSISSIPPI: Brad Arnold, founding member and lead vocalist of the rock band 3 Doors Down, has died at 47, the band announced on Saturday.

Arnold died peacefully in his sleep after a “courageous battle with cancer,” the band said in a statement on the band’s social media pages. His wife, Jennifer, and other family members were by his side. 

A defining voice in modern rock

Arnold was a founding member of 3 Doors Down, serving as the band's lead singer and original drummer. The Mississippi-based group helped define early-2000s rock, with chart-topping hits such as “Here Without You,” “It’s Not My Time,” and “Kryptonite,” which Arnold famously wrote at just 15.

Formed in 1996 in Escatawpa, Mississippi, alongside Matt Roberts and Todd Harrell, 3 Doors Down rose to national prominence in 2000 when “Kryptonite” climbed to No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100.

In a tribute, the band said Arnold’s influence went far beyond music. “His music reverberated far beyond the stage, creating moments of connection, joy, faith, and shared experiences,” the statement read. 

He was remembered as a devoted husband and a person beloved for his “kindness, humor, and generosity.” Those closest to him, the band added, will remember “his warmth, humility, faith, and deep love for his family and friends.”

Fellow artists also shared condolences. Singer Chris Daughtry wrote, “Sending my love to the Arnold family. Rest easy brother. You will be missed.” Creed added, “Sending love to the Arnold and 3DD family.” The band Black Stone Cherry called Arnold “a top notch, class act” who supported them early in their career.

Public diagnosis and message to fans

In May, Arnold revealed he had been diagnosed with stage four kidney cancer. In an Instagram video, he said doctors identified clear cell renal carcinoma that had spread to his lung.

At the time, he asked fans for prayers and announced the cancellation of the band’s tour. “I’d love for you to lift me up in prayer every chance you get,” Arnold said, referencing the band’s song “It’s Not My Time.”

Arnold is survived by his wife and family and will be remembered as a defining voice of a generation of rock fans.