Foo Fighters Announce Drummer Change: Josh Freese Departs, Ilan Rubin Joins

Foo Fighters recently discussed their decision to part ways with drummer Josh Freese in spring 2025. The band cited a desire to "go in a different direction" regarding their drummer. Freese confirmed the change, stating he was informed by the band and supported their decision.

Drummer Transition and New Direction

Freese began performing with the Foo Fighters in 2022 as a guest drummer for tribute concerts honoring the band's late drummer, Taylor Hawkins, before becoming a permanent member. The entire band took a break from touring in 2024.

Dave Grohl explained in an interview that the choice to move on from Freese was a collective band decision made over several months during their hiatus. He emphasized that all band members communicated the decision to Freese.

Following Freese's departure, it was announced that Ilan Rubin, a longtime drummer for Nine Inch Nails, would join the Foo Fighters. Freese subsequently returned to Nine Inch Nails, where he had previously toured.

Grohl referenced Freese's statement that the Foo Fighters' music did not "really resonate" with him. Freese had publicly acknowledged the difficulty of his position following Hawkins' death, noting the pressure to perform consistently at a high level.

Reflecting on Taylor Hawkins' Legacy

Taylor Hawkins died at age 50 in 2022 in Bogota, Colombia, with the cause determined to be a drug overdose.

Grohl discussed the complexities of the band's continuation after Hawkins, describing him as a central figure.

He stated that Hawkins' spirit and energy remain influential within the band.

The Foo Fighters are scheduled to begin a stadium tour on August 4 in Toronto.