Mike Bilcox, the frontman of Canadian pop-punk band Not By Choice, passed away on June 21, 2025, at the age of 48 after a battle with cancer. Known for his powerful voice and kind presence, Bilcox helped shape the sound of early 2000s Canadian punk rock with sincerity and heart. He co-founded Not By Choice in 1997 with longtime friend Glenn “Chico” Dunning in Ajax, Ontario. The band’s name came from a family joke about siblings—“You’re my brother, not by choice”—a phrase that reflected their blend of humor and loyalty.
The band released two EPs before signing to Linus Entertainment, where they dropped their debut full-length album Maybe One Day in 2002. It was released on Mike’s birthday, September 3rd, and included their breakout single “Standing All Alone” along with “Now That You Are Leaving,” which won the MuchMusic Video Award for Best Independent Video in 2003. Their music landed on the Big Shiny Tunes compilation series and received solid radio rotation, securing their place in Canada’s rock landscape at the time. Touring with acts like Avril Lavigne, Sum 41, and Simple Plan, the band was often praised not just for their music, but for their humility and warmth. Chuck Comeau of Simple Plan remembered them as “some of the kindest, most genuine people we’ve ever met.”
Liam Killeen, the band’s drummer and now a music executive, described Mike as a “light” and “a star,” crediting him with bringing people together and energizing those around him. Jeff Craib, former agent at The Feldman Agency, called Bilcox “the driving force” of the band and remembered his instinctive leadership during their early, scrappy days on tour. In recent years, Not By Choice reunited for a few shows, including one with Simple Plan in 2017, reminding fans of the timelessness of their songs. Online tributes have poured in from across Canada, from fans who grew up with their music to fellow musicians who admired Mike’s voice and character.
Mike Bilcox may not have released a vast catalog, but what he and his band did put out left a lasting mark on the Canadian punk rock scene. His voice and spirit won’t be forgotten.
