Foo Fighters recently wrapped up their North American tour in support of their 2023 album But Here We Are, a deeply personal record that marked a new chapter in the band’s history. This tour was particularly notable as it introduced Josh Freese as the Foo Fighters’ new drummer, following the tragic passing of Taylor Hawkins in March 2022. For many fans, this tour served as a moment of healing and reflection, while also showcasing the band’s staying power despite losing a key member.
Josh Freese in the Drummer’s Seat
Josh Freese, who stepped in as the band’s drummer for this tour, is no stranger to the rock scene. His resume includes work with Nine Inch Nails, A Perfect Circle, Devo, The Vandals, and Guns N’ Roses, to name just a few. His drumming has been featured on landmark albums like Nine Inch Nails’ With Teeth and Year Zero, A Perfect Circle’s Mer de Noms, and The Offspring’s Americana.
Despite Freese’s deep experience, it’s important to note that he did not play on But Here We Are. Instead, Foo Fighters’ frontman Dave Grohl took on drumming duties for the album, adding yet another layer of personal investment into the music following the loss of Hawkins, his close friend and bandmate. This decision reflects a pattern in Grohl’s career, as he has previously stepped in as the drummer on Foo Fighters’ recordings during times of transition.
Dave Grohl’s Role As Foo Fighters Drummer
The dynamic between Grohl and the band’s drummers has always been unique, given Grohl’s own history as one of rock’s most iconic drummers from his time with Nirvana. When Foo Fighters first formed, William Goldsmith was the original drummer. However, during the recording of their second album, The Colour and the Shape, Grohl was dissatisfied with Goldsmith’s drum tracks and re-recorded them himself. Although Grohl offered Goldsmith the opportunity to remain as the band’s touring drummer, Goldsmith declined and left the band.
Later, Taylor Hawkins joined the Foo Fighters and became an integral part of the band’s identity. On the album There Is Nothing Left to Lose, both Grohl and Hawkins shared drumming responsibilities, showcasing a collaborative approach that allowed Hawkins to establish his own place in the band while respecting Grohl’s influence. On subsequent Foo Fighters albums, Hawkins became the primary drummer, showing Grohl is willing to let somebody else drum on Foo Fighters records without micromanaging everything. Hawkins even wrote “Cold Day In The Sun.”
Foo Fighters New Album Drummer: Grohl or Freese?
As Foo Fighters look ahead to their next studio album, fans are asking an important question: Will Josh Freese take on the drumming duties, or will Dave Grohl once again step behind the kit? This question is a good one to ask given the band’s history and Grohl’s status as one of rock’s greatest all time drummer. The decision will likely depend on the creative direction of the band and the personal dynamics between Grohl and Freese.
If Grohl decides to remain the band’s studio drummer, it will be important for both him and Freese to clearly define Freese’s role within the band to avoid any potential conflicts or misunderstandings to avoid another William Goldsmith debacle.
Foo Fighters New Era Continues
Josh Freese has proven himself as a worthy addition to Foo Fighters’ live lineup, and the chemistry between him and the rest of the band has been evident, especially when Dave let him play some drum parts from bands he used to play with like Ninch Inch Nails. As the Foo Fighters continue to move forward without Taylor Hawkins, the question of who will drum on their next album remains open. Should it be Dave Grohl or Josh Freese? Let us know in the comments!
