3 Doors Down frontman Brad Arnold dead at 47

3 Doors Down frontman Brad Arnold has died at the age of 47 after a battle with cancer.

The singer's death was confirmed in a statement released on the band's social media accounts today.

The statement reads: "With heavy hearts we share the news that Brad Arnold, founder, lead singer and songwriter of 3 Doors Down, passed away on Saturday, February 7, at the age of 47.

"With his beloved wife Jennifer and family by his side, he passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, in his sleep after his courageous battle with cancer."

The statement goes on to highlight Arnold's role in helping to "redefine mainstream rock music" by "blending post-grunge accessibility with emotionally direct songwriting and lyrical themes that resonated with everyday listeners."

The band add: "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.

"Those closest to him will remember not only his talent, but his warmth, humility, faith, and deep love for his family and friends."

Among the first to pay tribute to the Mississippi-born musician were contemporaries like Alter Bridge and Black Stone Cherry.

Alter Bridge say: "Thank you Brad, your friendship was one we will hold close forever."

Alter Bridge and Creed guitarist wrote: "It is absolutely heartbreaking to realise that you’ll never get to perform or just have a laugh with a friend that you grew up with in the music industry."

Responding to the announcement on 3 Doors Down's Instagram post, Black Stone Cherry say: "We are so very sorry. Brad was always such a top notch, class act to us. Even before we were anything at all, he supported us. Such a huge loss and our prayers go out to his family and band."

Shinedown's Brent Smith says: "Thank you for the music. Thank you for the songs. Thank you for your love. Thank you for your friendship, and thank you for inspiring us all. May your light shine through all of time, and space forever."

Arnold was a founding member of 3 Doors Down and was originally the band's drummer, before switching to focus full-time on vocals. He announced last year he had been diagnosed with Stage 4 kidney cancer.

He found his songwriting flow early, writing the band's massive breakout hit Kryptonite when he was just 15 and still at school.

The twice Grammy-nominated band's debut album, The Better Life, sold more six million copies.