Boston frontman Tommy DeCarlo has died aged 60 after a six-month battle with brain cancer. Photo / Getty Images
Boston frontman Tommy DeCarlo has died, aged 60.
The musician died on Monday after battling brain cancer for six months, according to statements shared by his family on Facebook and Instagram.
DeCarlo joined Boston in 2007 following the death of the band’s original lead singer, Delp, who died aged 55.
Boston – formed in 1975 in Boston, Massachusetts by the songwriter and composer Tom Scholz – became known for hits including More Than A Feeling, Peace of Mind and Amanda.
DeCarlo had been a devoted fan of the group before unexpectedly becoming its touring vocalist after sharing recordings of himself singing Boston songs online.
His family confirmed his death in a statement shared on social media in which they said: “It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of our Dad, Tommy DeCarlo, on Monday, March 9th, 2026. After being diagnosed with brain cancer last September, he fought with incredible strength and courage right up until the very end.”
They added: “During this difficult time, we kindly ask that friends and fans respect our family’s privacy as we grieve and support one another.”
Earlier, DeCarlo’s family had launched a GoFundMe page seeking support with medical costs related to his treatment.
In a message on the fundraising page, the family described the medical emergency that led to the diagnosis.
They said: “In late September, Dad suffered a sudden brain bleed and underwent an emergency craniotomy.
“During surgery, doctors discovered two melanoma masses on his brain and another spot on his lungs.
“He amazed us by recovering from the surgery and beginning treatment, but before he could complete it, he had another brain bleed and was hospitalised from November 27th to December 27th.
“Since then he has completed acute inpatient therapy and is currently back on track with treatments from his oncology team.”
The family also wrote: “Our Dad is strong. He is a fighter. And he’s giving this battle everything he’s got – but he needs your help on this one.”
DeCarlo’s loved ones explained the fundraising effort was intended to help support the singer’s medical needs, adding: “He is deeply grateful for the love, prayers, and support he’s already received from friends, family, and fans all over the world. It has lifted him up during the hardest moments and reminded him he’s not fighting alone.
“If you can donate, share, or simply send your love his way, it means more to us than you’ll ever know.
“Thank you for helping us get him the care he urgently needs. Sincerely, Annie, Talia and Tommy Jr.”
DeCarlo’s route into Boston was unusual.
A longtime fan of the band, he recorded himself performing several Boston songs and uploaded them to MySpace after Delp’s death. He then sent the recordings to the band’s management team.
He was then invited to join Boston’s tours – and at the time had been working in the credit department of a Home Depot in North Carolina.
From 2007 onwards, DeCarlo served as Boston’s lead or co-lead vocalist on tour.
He later recorded the audiobook Unlikely Rockstar – The Tommy DeCarlo Story, which described his unexpected rise to performing with the band he had long admired.
Its synopsis states: “On a warm summer night in August, 2007 at the Bank Of America Pavilion in Boston, Massachusetts, Tommy DeCarlo took to the stage and for the first time with his favourite band, Boston.
“Fourteen years, six tours, and 326 shows later, listen as he takes you on his most unlikely journey from Utica, New York to touring the world as the vocalist for one of the most iconic rock and roll bands of all time.”