Blink-182 bassist Mark Hoppus honors late New Found Glory guitarist Chad Gilbert
Mark Hoppus remembered his longtime friend and touring companion Chad Gilbert, who died at 45 after battling brain cancer, highlighting their shared history and Gilbert's impact on the music community.
Founding New Found Glory guitarist Chad Gilbert died on Sept. 20 at age 45 following a prolonged fight with brain cancer. Blink-182 co-lead vocalist and bassist Mark Hoppus, who also survived cancer, paid tribute to Gilbert, describing him as a close friend he first met when Gilbert’s band frequently attended Blink-182 shows in Florida. Hoppus said the two bands later toured together, and Gilbert often rode on Blink-182’s tour bus, where they discussed music, personal challenges and treatment options.
"He was always smiling and enthusiastic, a true joy to be around," Hoppus said.
Hoppus recalled collaborating with New Found Glory on their 2009 album and noted Gilbert’s positive attitude even during hospital stays, describing him as consistently hopeful despite the seriousness of his illness. Their last meeting occurred in Nashville at a Blink-182 concert, where Gilbert, using a cane, greeted Hoppus and introduced his family before returning to his treatment regimen.
The tribute underscores the long-standing personal and professional ties between the two musicians and marks Gilbert’s influence on the pop-punk scene.