It’s a tough week for the scene. Three days after the news broke that New Found Glory guitarist Chad Gilbert passed away at 45 following a battle with brain cancer, Paramore’s Hayley Williams is finally speaking out. In a heartfelt post on her Instagram Story this Wednesday, she admitted she hasn’t quite known what to say or if it was even her place to comment, but she felt like she needed to share her perspective.
Real talk, Williams and Gilbert’s history goes way back—they dated starting in 2008 and were married in 2016, though they eventually split in 2017 while maintaining a friendship. In her tribute, Williams reflected on how Chad was “a legend in the scene” and how he fundamentally shaped her world. She credited him with introducing her to people and music that totally enriched her life, saying, “I will forever be grateful that from him I gained a deeper understanding and a reverence for the community and the culture of hardcore.”
Honoring a legend
It’s giving major respect, as Williams highlighted how his influence and attitude literally pushed the genre forward, noting that his "passion for fostering the community was inspiring and sticks with me." She wrapped up her message by sending love to his family, his NFG bandmates, and all his friends.
Chad’s wife, Lisa Cimorelli, and his New Found Glory bandmates announced his passing on Sunday, Sept. 20, noting that he died peacefully in his sleep surrounded by his loved ones. The statement shared that for Chad, his daughter Lily was his world and being a father was his absolute greatest accomplishment.
Why it matters
Chad Gilbert was a foundational figure in the pop-punk and hardcore scene for decades. Williams’ tribute highlights just how deep his impact went beyond just the music, emphasizing the tight-knit community he helped build and the lasting mark he left on everyone he crossed paths with.
