In an exciting announcement during a livestreamed event on Sunday, the Foo Fighters revealed that Josh Freese, a session drummer and longtime friend of frontman Dave Grohl, will be joining the band as their new drummer. This news comes just over a year after the tragic passing of Taylor Hawkins, who died in March 2022 while on tour with the band in Bogotá, Colombia, at the age of 50.
Titled “Foo Fighters: Preparing Music for Concerts,” the livestream showcased the band’s playful reveal of their new drummer. Three renowned drummers, Chad Smith of Red Hot Chili Peppers, Tommy Lee of Mötley Crüe, and Danny Carey of Tool, took turns knocking on the door of the band’s rehearsal room, engaging in humorous banter with the members. However, it was Josh Freese, strategically positioned behind an off-camera drum kit, who surprised the band with his unexpected appearance.
After Freese’s enthusiastic request, “Can we play a song or something?!” the band launched into performances of songs from their upcoming album, “But Here We Are.” Freese’s addition to the Foo Fighters is a natural choice given his close friendship with Grohl and Hawkins, as well as his extensive experience as a session drummer. He has collaborated with a wide range of notable bands and musicians, including Guns N’ Roses, A Perfect Circle, Puddle of Mudd, Nine Inch Nails, Weezer, Paramore, and many more.
The announcement of Freese as the new drummer comes just a month after the band’s announcement of their forthcoming album, marking their first new music since Hawkins’ untimely passing. The album, titled “But Here We Are,” is set to be released on June 2, with the lead single “Rescued” already available to listeners.
Described as a raw and emotionally honest response to the challenges the Foo Fighters have faced in the past year, “But Here We Are” reflects the healing power of music, friendship, and family. The album features 10 songs that encompass a range of emotions, from rage and sorrow to serenity and acceptance.
In addition to the album release, the Foo Fighters have announced a series of headlining shows this summer and multiple upcoming festival appearances, commencing with a performance on May 24 at the Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion in Gilford, NH.
Reflecting on their journey in a heartfelt Twitter post at the end of 2022, the band expressed gratitude to their fans and acknowledged the significant impact of Taylor Hawkins. They emphasized that, while their path forward may be different without him, his spirit will be with them every night as they continue to represent the healing power of music and embrace the next chapter of their musical evolution.
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