Josh Freese, the new drummer for the Foo Fighters, recently opened up for the first time about his experiences with the band after joining in early 2023. In a candid interview with The New York Times, he shared insights into his journey and the immense pressure he faced while stepping into the shoes of Taylor Hawkins, the beloved drummer who tragically passed away in 2022.
Freese conveyed that while he appreciated his time with the Foo Fighters, his connection to the band’s music was less profound than he had anticipated. He revealed that his involvement felt more like a responsibility than a true artistic synergy. “It wasn’t music with which I really resonated,” he admitted, shedding light on just how the emotional toll of the situation weighed heavily on him.
Joining the band after Hawkins’s death placed Freese under enormous emotional and professional pressure. Many viewed him as the key player to help navigate through this challenging transition, one that required him to embody the spirit of a musician so cherished by fans. “He entered as Dave Grohl’s drummer, the man who was supposed to save the day after the loss of the beloved Taylor. I felt that I had to be ‘on’ all the time,” Freese recounted during his interview. This responsibility highlighted the weight of expectations that came along with the role.
In May 2023, Freese’s surprising exit from the Foo Fighters was announced. He stated that he received a call informing him that “they had decided to go in another direction.” While he was not given specific reasons for this decision, he maintained a professional demeanor, saying he appreciated the experiences he gained over the past two years. “They called me Monday night to tell me that they had decided to go in another direction. They didn’t give me a reason. In any case, I enjoyed the last two years with them,” he shared on social media.
Interestingly, during the interview, Freese also touched on the unexpected news of Ilan Rubin‘s transition from Nine Inch Nails to Foo Fighters. “I couldn’t believe it. But Ilan is a phenomenal drummer, a phenomenal musician. It will be perfect for that job,” Freese remarked, acknowledging the talent that Rubin brings to the band.
Rubin’s background with Nine Inch Nails informs his style, which meshes well with the Foo Fighters’ energetic essence. This transition is seen as a smart move; Freese has expressed support for his former bandmates as they continue their musical journey.
On the topic of future opportunities, Freese was asked about the open drum position in Pearl Jam following Matt Cameron’s departure. He clarified that, as of now, no one from the Seattle-based band has approached him regarding the role. Nevertheless, he remains optimistic: “Whatever happens, I’m going to be out there. That’s the only thing I always wanted to do,” he concluded, reaffirming his dedication to music.
After departing from the Foo Fighters, Freese returned to his musical roots, rejoining Nine Inch Nails, with which he has a long-standing relationship. Currently, he is on his US tour with the band, showcasing his resilience and presence in the music industry. Despite the hurdles faced at Foo Fighters, his passion for music remains vibrant, and he continues to captivate audiences with his drumming skills.
Freese’s narrative illustrates the intricate balance between creativity and the demands of legacy in the world of rock music. He expressed appreciation for his time with the Foo Fighters but emphasized his aspiration to forge new paths in his career. The rapid changes in his life serve as a reminder of the ever-evolving landscape of the music industry and the importance of staying authentic and passionate about one’s craft.