Legendary Guitarist, Matt Roberts, Dead At 38

3 Doors Down/Matt Roberts

Matt Roberts, lead guitarist and founding member of rock band 3 Doors Down, has died at age 38. Matt’s father, Darrell, confirmed the news to TMZ saying that his son’s death “is devastating.” 

According to Darrell Roberts, he last saw his son around 1 a.m. Saturday (August 20) following a rehearsal. He was told by detectives around 9 a.m. that his son had passed away. Matt was scheduled to perform at a charity even in Wisconsin on Saturday. 

The cause of death has not been confirmed, but Darrell said that an accidental overdose of prescription pills may have contributed to his death. 

In 2012, Matt Roberts left 3 Doors Down because of health issues including poor blood circulation. At the time of his departure, the band was touring with country act Gretchen Wilson. Roberts, a Mississippi native, formed 3 Doors Down in 1996 with Brad Arnold and bassist Todd Harrell. 

As part of the band’s set, they often covered Garth Brooks‘ 1989 hit ‘The Dance,’ a song that lead singer Brad Arnold called his favorite song ever written. Listen to 3 Doors Down perform ‘The Dance’ below. 

Rest in peace, Matt Roberts.