Drummer Josh Freese, who parted ways with Foo Fighters in May after two years with the band, has spoken about the lack of clarity regarding his departure. During a recent appearance on SiriusXM’s Trunk Nation with Eddie Trunk, Freese mentioned he still doesn’t know the exact reasons for his dismissal, though he has some private theories.
Freese Discusses His Exit
In the December 10 episode of Eddie Trunk’s show, Freese was asked if he had gained any insight into his firing. According to Blabbermouth, Freese responded:
Not really. I have a few theories, but given the band’s popularity, I’m hesitant to comment further as anything I say could be widely circulated.
He added: “I enjoyed my time with them. Those years were great.”
Freese had previously addressed the situation on Instagram on May 16, stating:
The Foo Fighters informed me on May 12 that they chose “to go in a different direction with their drummer.” No explanation was given. Despite this, I cherished the past two years with them and support their decision. In my 40-year career, I’ve never been let go from a band, so while I’m not angry, I’m surprised and disappointed. However, as a freelancer, I’m used to moving between bands. Stay tuned for my “Top 10 Possible Reasons Josh Got Booted From the Foo Fighters” list.
Freese humorously shared this list on Instagram, citing reasons like whistling “My Hero” incessantly, not knowing enough Fugazi songs, and demanding a Ouija board and nunchucks after shows.
Loudwire later speculated on potential replacements for Freese, suggesting drummers like Matt Cameron, Chad Smith, and Shane Hawkins.
In an interesting twist, Foo Fighters and Nine Inch Nails exchanged drummers. Freese returned to Nine Inch Nails, where he had toured from 2005 to 2008, while Ilan Rubin, who replaced him in 2009, joined Foo Fighters.
Foo Fighters have since performed live with Rubin and released their first track with him, “Asking for a Friend.”
Over the summer, Foo Fighters’ founder Dave Grohl reflected on the band’s 30th anniversary, expressing gratitude to past and present members, including Freese:
We owe thanks to William Goldsmith, Franz Stahl, and Josh Freese for their contributions. Their energy, wisdom, and talent have been invaluable to our story. Thank you, gentlemen.
Freese and Rubin’s Drummer Swap
Discussing the swap with Rubin, Freese told Trunk it was purely coincidental:
It wasn’t a planned exchange. If Ilan had left Nine Inch Nails for another band, Trent would have called me. It just so happened that I was available when Trent needed a drummer, and Ilan joined Foo Fighters. It was a coincidence, not premeditated.
Josh Freese’s Tenure with Foo Fighters
Following the passing of Taylor Hawkins in March 2022, Josh Freese was named Foo Fighters’ drummer in May 2023. Known for his extensive work with bands like the Vandals, Devo, and Guns N’ Roses, Freese was celebrated by fans and fellow musicians alike.
Steve Stevens of Billy Idol praised the decision, and Dashboard Confessional’s Chris Kamrada highlighted Freese’s influence on his own career. Fans were also supportive, recognizing Freese’s talent and the band’s resilience.
In May 2024, Freese paid tribute to Hawkins on Instagram, reflecting on his time with Foo Fighters and their commitment to moving forward while honoring Hawkins’ legacy.
Though Freese didn’t record on Foo Fighters’ albums, he played numerous live shows with them.
Recent Projects and Future Plans
Recently, Freese released Just A Minute, Vol. 2, featuring 25 one-minute tracks, continuing the concept from his 2021 album. The release was well-received by Kerrang!
Foo Fighters, meanwhile, are set to perform globally through 2026, including a stop at Welcome to Rockville in Daytona, Florida. They will share the stage with artists like IDLES, Queens of the Stone Age, and Mannequin Pussy.
