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BRAD Arnold, the singer of mainstream hard rock act 3 Doors Down, has lost his life to cancer. He was just 47.

Arnold wrote the band’s massive hit “Kryonite” when he was just 15 and still at school. It was released officially in 2000 after gaining airplay as a demo the year before and was number one of Billboard’s modern rock chart for 11 weeks. It peaked at no.7 in Australia and no.13 in New Zealand.

He had been diagnosed with stage four kidney cancer and revealed this on Instagram last May.

The Mississippi band said in a statement: “With heavy hearts, we share the news that Brad Arnold, founder, lead singer, and songwriter of 3 Doors Down, passed away on Saturday, February 7th, at the age of 47.

“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.

“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, humour 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.”

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Steve Mascord

Author Steve Mascord

Steve came up with the name of Hot Metal magazine in 1989 and worked for the magazine in its early years. He is HM's editor and proprietor in 2022.

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