Tommy DeCarlo, Boston’s lead singer and biggest fan, passes away at 60 after cancer battle

Trigger Warning: This article contains mentions of cancer. Reader’s discretion is advised.Tommy DeCarlo, who was one of rock band Boston’s biggest fans and later on the lead singer, has passed away. He was 60 at the time of his passing and had been battling a form of brain cancer in the months leading up to his demise. On his social media platforms, the news was confirmed along with a post that read, “It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of our Dad, Tommy DeCarlo, on Monday, March 9th, 2026.” The post further revealed that the musician had been diagnosed with brain cancer in September last year, and had been bravely battling the disease since then.The post concluded by sharing, “During this difficult time, we kindly ask that friends and fans respect our family’s privacy as we grieve and support one another. Rest in peace, Dad. With love, Annie, Talia & Tommy Jr.”Tom Scholz, one of the founding members of Boston, also issued a statement following DeCarlo’s passing. In a statement to PEOPLE, he shared, “While many people will remember Tommy giving his audience amazing live performances, I will remember him as the incredible singer who appeared out of nowhere to rescue BOSTON in 2007, and gave all of us with the band 10 additional years of performing our most memorable live shows.”As soon as the news of his passing was shared on his socials, tributes and comments paying their respects to the artist started pouring in. Sugar Ray lead singer Mark Sayers McGrath posted the comment, “Truly heartbreaking…such a beautiful soul with such a beautiful gift. Sending love and prayers to the DeCarlo Family (prayer and heart emoji).”Bassist, singer and actor Sean McNabb also remembered the musician and posted “Oh my God prayers to the family (broken heart emoji) what an absolutely lovely & talented guy. I will cherish our time on and off stage together (praying hands emoji, music notes emoji and broken heart emoji).”Another fan of the star posted a heartfelt message that read, “OMG! I’m heartbroken. Such a wonderful person and so talented. He will be truly missed and live on in the memories and music that he touched the world with. My heart breaks for the his family.”USA Today reported that DeCarlo had his start in music late in life. Prior to joining Boston as the lead singer, he once worked at the North Carolina Home Depot as a credit manager. While he did not officially pursue music, he was a self-taught piano player and choir singer. He would often post covers on his account, one of which he sent to Boston’s team. After Scholz heard the demo, he was impressed and invited him to sing with the band for multiple shows. Other than Boston, he also went on to start the band DECARLO with his son in 2012. Disclaimer: This article contains mentions of cancer and personal experiences related to the disease, which readers may find sensitive. The information shared is based on personal accounts or reported events and is for general awareness only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.