Paramore vocalist Hayley Williams has publicly reflected on the life and legacy of New Found Glory guitarist Chad Gilbert, following his recent death after a battle with cancer.
Williams and Gilbert were together for approximately a decade and were married from February 2016 until July 2017. Following Gilbert’s passing, Williams shared a lengthy statement reflecting on their history together and the influence he had on her life and musical perspective.
Williams acknowledged that she initially wasn’t sure whether to publicly address Gilbert’s death, but ultimately felt compelled to share her thoughts.
“Have not known what to say or if it’s appropriate. But I feel sure now that I want to bc life is made of the paths we cross and the reasons we cross them are infinite.”
She went on to recognize Gilbert’s longstanding impact on the punk and hardcore communities, as well as the personal influence he had on her.
“Chad is indeed a legend in the scene and my time connected to him taught me a lot. He introduced me to people that continue to shape my life in beautiful ways, and to music and culture that has made life a lot richer.”
Williams also highlighted Gilbert’s contributions to the musical community in which they both came up, crediting his passion and influence with helping shape the genre and the people surrounding it.
“There isn’t much that hasn’t already been said about what he contributed to the musical world a lot of us grew up in. His influence and attitude guided the genre forward. His passion for fostering the community was inspiring and sticks with me.”
Reflecting more specifically on what she took away from their years together, Williams said Gilbert gave her a deeper appreciation for hardcore and the community surrounding it.
“I will forever be grateful that from him I gained a deeper understanding and a reverence for the community and the culture of hardcore.”
She concluded her statement by extending her condolences to Gilbert’s loved ones, his New Found Glory bandmates and friends.
“Sending love and my sympathies to his family, NFG fam, and all his friends.”
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