New Found Glory Pays Tribute to Late Guitarist Chad Gilbert at EPCOT Concert
The band performed at EPCOT, honoring guitarist Chad Gilbert, who died in September after brain surgery, with a tribute that included a Mickey Mouse guitar display.
New Found Glory performed at EPCOT on Monday, marking the group’s first show since the death of founding guitarist Chad Gilbert. Lead vocalist Jordan Pundik addressed the audience, saying Gilbert was "here in spirit tonight" and encouraging fans to celebrate his life by enjoying the music.
Pundik noted that Gilbert’s presence remained in the songs and on stage, and he highlighted the guitarist’s dedication to his family, the band and its fans. The concert featured a Mickey Mouse-shaped guitar that Gilbert, a known Disney enthusiast, had used, displayed onstage as part of the homage.
Gilbert died on Sept. 20 at age 45 after undergoing brain surgery in March to remove three tumors. According to the band, he passed peacefully in his sleep, surrounded by his wife and mother.