Josh Freese Parts Ways with Foo Fighters After Two Years
In a surprising twist, drummer Josh Freese has been let go from Foo Fighters, just two years after stepping into the role left vacant by the late Taylor Hawkins. Freese took to Instagram to share the news, revealing that the band contacted him earlier this week to announce they were “going in a different direction with their drummer.” With a touch of humor, he teased, “Stay tuned for my ‘Top 10 possible reasons Josh got booted from the Foo Fighters’ list,” while noting that no specific reason was provided for the decision. Rumors have already been circulating about who will replace Josh as the new Foo Fighters drummer.
Freese’s Official Statement
Here’s Josh’s full statement, unedited:
View this post on Instagram
“The Foo Fighters called me Monday night to let me know they’ve decided ‘to go in a different direction with their drummer.’ No reason was given. 🙁
“Regardless, I enjoyed the past two years with them, both on and off stage, and I support whatever they feel is best for the band.
“In my 40 years of drumming professionally, I’ve never been let go from a band, so while I’m not angry just a bit shocked and disappointed. But as most of you know I’ve always worked freelance and bounced between bands so, I’m fine.
“Stay tuned for my ‘Top 10 possible reasons Josh got booted from the Foo Fighters’ list.”
How Freese Landed the Foo Fighters Gig
Back in April 2024, Freese sat down with producer and YouTuber Rick Beato to discuss how he snagged the coveted Foo Fighters gig. He recounted: “On my children’s lives, I had zero plans of being called to be the drummer. And everyone and their mother — my neighbor walking the dog, ‘Hey Josh, the Foo Fighters call you yet?'” Freese explained that speculation was rife—Reddit forums buzzed, and fellow drummers texted—but he remained skeptical, unsure if the band would even continue after Taylor Hawkins’ passing.
Freese emphasized his hands-off approach during the September 2022 Taylor Hawkins tribute concerts, avoiding any nudge toward Dave Grohl about the drumming role. “I wasn’t gonna be another guy coming at Dave, going, ‘So dude, if you need a drummer, I’m around,'” he said. Instead, he stayed busy with other projects, content with his career trajectory.
Then, just before Christmas 2022, a missed call from Grohl changed everything. Freese, out walking with his wife and dogs, initially brushed off assumptions about the call’s purpose. “He might be having a New Year’s Eve party,” he quipped. But when they finally connected, after casual chatter about kids and holiday shopping, Grohl revealed the band had recorded new material—with him on drums—and wanted Freese to join permanently. “It felt like someone socked me in the stomach,” Freese admitted, more stunned than celebratory. After the holidays, he and Grohl met to discuss the new record, cementing his decision to join.
Why Freese Said Yes
Accepting the offer was a no-brainer for Freese, who holds Grohl in high esteem not just as a songwriter but as a powerhouse drummer. “Dave is such a bad motherfucker, man,” he told Beato. “That stuff can’t be taught.” Freese often discussed Grohl’s drumming prowess with Hawkins, both marveling at his innate rhythm. Playing alongside Grohl, Freese found inspiration rather than intimidation, praising their natural chemistry. “His rhythm is great,” he said, noting how Grohl’s precision eliminates the need for extra timekeeping during breaks. “When he turns around and we lock in, it’s always fun and exciting.”
Foo Fighters’ Drummer Reveal
Foo Fighters officially introduced Freese as their touring drummer on May 21, 2023, during a lively livestream event, “Foo Fighters: Preparing Music For Concerts.” The reveal featured playful cameos from Chad Smith of Red Hot Chili Peppers, Tommy Lee of Mötley Crüe, and Danny Carey of Tool, building anticipation before Freese’s big moment.
Freese’s Storied Career
Before Foo Fighters, Freese was a sought-after session drummer, recently performing with Danny Elfman (replaced by Ilan Rubin) and touring with The Offspring until 2022, when Brandon Pertzborn took over. His resume boasts an impressive roster, including Guns N’ Roses, A Perfect Circle, Puddle of Mudd, Nine Inch Nails, Weezer, Paramore, The Replacements, Sting, and The Vandals. With over 300 recordings spanning pop, rock, and country, Freese’s versatility is undeniable.
Who’s the Next Foo Fighters Drummer?
The rumor mills are churning on who could replace a drummer like Josh Freese. One of the more credible rumors comes from Stan Bickell on his Instagram stores saying, “I’ve just been informed, they’ve gone with Shane… 🤐 But you didn’t hear it here 😉 🤫” he wrote. Shane is the son of late drummer Taylor Hawkins who performed with the band several times including the tribute shows.
As the band charts a new course with their drumming lineup, fans are left wondering who will fill Freese’s shoes—and what’s next for the rock icons. Stay tuned for updates on Freese’s next move and that promised “Top 10” list!