# Mark Hoppus Honors Chad Gilbert, New Found Glory Guitarist

> Mark Hoppus recalls his bond with New Found Glory's Chad Gilbert, who died at 45 after battling brain cancer.
- Title: Mark Hoppus Honors Chad Gilbert, New Found Glory Guitarist
- Summary: Mark Hoppus recalls his bond with New Found Glory's Chad Gilbert, who died at 45 after battling brain cancer. Blink-182's Mark Hoppus remembers New Found…
- Keywords: mark hoppus, chad gilbert, new found glory, blink 182, brain cancer, founding member, lead guitarist, singer, co-founder, bassist, music, tribute
- Source: Rolling Stone — https://rollingstone.com/music/music-features/mark-hoppus-blink-182-chad-gilbert-new-found-glory-tribute-1235629441
- Author: Mark Hoppus
- Published: 2026-09-21T18:47:05+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: mark hoppus, chad gilbert, new found glory, blink 182, brain cancer, founding member, lead guitarist, singer, co-founder, bassist, music, tribute
## Chad Gilbert's Smile
Mark Hoppus called Chad Gilbert his little brother, describing him as a happy, enthusiastic music lover who always smiled.

> I always thought of Chad Gilbert as my little brother.
## Early Friendship
Hoppus met Gilbert at Blink-182 shows in Florida, where Gilbert and his friends frequented every event.

> He and a bunch of his shithead friends used to come to every show Blink played in Florida.
## New Found Glory Success
Gilbert's band New Found Glory signed with Blink-182's label and went on tour with them after Hoppus championed their music.

> I played it for everyone I knew. I played it for friends and labels and radio stations.
## Blink Bus Rides
During Blink-182's tour, Gilbert rode the bus with Hoppus and his wife, sharing stories and laughter.

> We talked a lot on the long rides.
## Chad's Joy
Gilbert was known for his positive attitude, fighting through challenges with joy and a smile.

> He was the guy who sincerely smiled and laughed and loved to see and meet new people.
## Cancer Battle
Gilbert died at 45 after a battle with brain cancer, despite his optimism and resilience.

> He died at the age of 45 after a battle with brain cancer.
## Key takeaway

Blink-182's Mark Hoppus remembers New Found Glory's Chad Gilbert, who died at 45 after a brain cancer battle.