Josh Freese Opens Up About His Shocking Firing from Foo Fighters: “It Wasn’t Music I Really Resonated With”

Veteran drummer Josh Freese has spoken candidly about his recent departure from the Foo Fighters, a role he stepped into under intense pressure following the tragic loss of Taylor Hawkins.

“I came in as Dave Grohl’s drummer, expected to fill the massive shoes left behind after Taylor’s death,” Freese told The New York Times. Although accustomed to taking on demanding gigs with little notice, he said the responsibility felt overwhelming at times, making him feel he had to be “firing on all cylinders all the time.”

Reflecting on his firing, Freese suggested the real issues may have stemmed from the band’s management rather than personal conflicts. “On a personal level, I wasn’t deeply connected to the music, so I’m not too upset about the decision,” he added.

The Sudden Departure

Freese revealed in May that he had been let go from Foo Fighters without explanation. “In my 40 years as a professional drummer, I’ve never been dismissed from a band,” he said. “I’m not angry, just surprised and disappointed.” The band publicly thanked him for his “thunderous wizardry” when they released “Today’s Song” in July.

Rather than dwell on the setback, Freese quickly returned to the stage, rejoining Nine Inch Nails—where he had previously toured between 2005 and 2008. Meanwhile, Ilan Rubin, long-time Nine Inch Nails drummer, took over Freese’s spot with the Foo Fighters.

“I couldn’t believe the drummer swap,” Freese remarked. “But Ilan is an incredible musician, and he’ll be perfect for the job.”

Rumors Surrounding Pearl Jam

This year has been turbulent for rock drummers, with many veteran bands undergoing lineup changes. Among them is Pearl Jam, who recently parted ways with drummer Matt Cameron after nearly three decades.

Some fans speculate that Freese could be a natural fit for the vacancy, though he remains uncertain about any official offer. “Whatever happens, I’ll be out there playing—that’s all I’ve ever wanted,” he said.