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, humor, 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.
2023 The Better Life Foundation Recap
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MISSION
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The mission of The Better Life Foundation is to make a positive change in the lives of children in need of food, shelter and medical assistance, and to enhance the lives of children and young adults in need. Each year The Better Life Foundation works to raise money that can be distributed to organizations and hospitals that serve as the vehicle to fulfill the mission of children being afforded a better life in which they can develop their potential, achieve their goals, and, become caring and responsible adults.
3 Doors Down established The Better Life Foundation in March of 2004 with the mission to make a positive change in the lives of children and young adults. The organization is a 501(c)(3) federally tax exempt charity.
Each year the benefit weekend is the primary source of donations and funding for the foundation. The Better Life Foundation weekend in Cherokee, NC took place October 19, 2023 - October 22, 2023. This year's concert occurred on October 21 with special guest Candlebox. To date the foundation has raised and distributed over $3,000,000 to reputable children’s charities, local municipalities and faith-based groups to achieve its goals in helping communities and children in need.
In 2005 when hurricane Katrina struck New Orleans and the Gulf Coast, The Better Life Foundation was committed to donating funds, providing support and relief to southern Mississippi that was largely overlooked by the press and media. Working directly with local municipalities the foundation provided funding to support the rebuilding process as well as buying fire trucks and police cars.
The artist, music community and luminaries from the world of sports and racing have rallied around 3 Doors Down and their efforts through The Better Life Foundation for over a decade. Past guest performers have included: Lynyrd Skynyrd, Tracey Lawrence, Shinedown, Staind, Hinder, Sara Evans, Muzikmafia, Daughtry, Theory of a Deadman, Jamey Johnson, SEETHER, Saving Abel and more.