New Found Glory paid tribute to guitarist and founding member Chad Gilbert as they returned to the stage for the first time since his death, performing at EPCOT on Monday.
Lead singer Jordan Pundik told the crowd that Gilbert remained part of the show despite his absence. “Even though he’s not here in body, he is here in spirit tonight,” he said.
Pundik added that Gilbert was still present “in these songs, in our hearts, on this stage”, while recalling his love for his family, the band and its fans.
He encouraged the audience to celebrate Gilbert’s life by jumping, singing along and enjoying the performance in his honour.
Gilbert’s Mickey Mouse guitar was displayed on stage alongside white flowers. New Found Glory said the musician was a major Disney fan and had previously played the instrument.
Gilbert died aged 45 on September 20. The band said he passed peacefully in his sleep surrounded by friends and family, with his wife and mother by his side, after undergoing brain surgery in March to remove three tumours.
New Found Glory formed in 1997 and has released 11 studio albums. Among the band’s best-known songs is My Friends Over You.
