Dave Grohl recently addressed the departure of drummer Josh Freese from Foo Fighters. He made his first public comments about the situation in a video shared ahead of the band’s 30th anniversary celebration on Foo Fighters.
The statement reflected on the band’s journey over three decades. It acknowledged the contributions of former members, including the recently dismissed Josh Freese.
“Over the years, we’ve had moments of unbridled joy, and moments of devastating heartbreak,” Grohl said. “Moments of beautiful victory, and moments of painful defeat. We have mended broken bones and broken hearts. But we have followed this road together, with each other, for each other, no matter what. Because in life, you just can’t go it alone.”
Grohl then specifically acknowledged the contributions of former band members, including Freese.
“It should go without saying that without the boundless energy of William Goldsmith, the seasoned wisdom of Franz Stahl, and the thunderous wizardry of Josh Freese, this story would be incomplete, so we extend our heartfelt gratitude for the time, music, and memories that we shared with each of them over the years,” he continued. “Thank you, gentlemen.”
The frontman also paid tribute to late drummer Taylor Hawkins, who passed away in 2022.
“And… Taylor. Your name is spoken every day, sometimes with tears, sometimes with a smile, but you are still in everything we do, everywhere we go, forever,” Grohl said. “The enormity of your beautiful soul is only rivalled by the infinite longing we feel in your absence. We all miss you beyond words. Foo Fighters will forever include Taylor Hawkins in every note that we play, until we do finally reach our destination.”
The statement comes as Foo Fighters prepares to celebrate their 30th anniversary on July 4th.
Grohl’s acknowledgment of Freese marks the end of a brief but significant chapter in the band’s history. This follows a period of uncertainty after Hawkins’ unexpected death.
American Songwriter reported that Freese joined the band in 2023 following Taylor Hawkins’ death. He was informed last year that Foo Fighters were “going in a different direction” with their drummer. The veteran musician, known for his work with bands like The Replacements and A Perfect Circle, was not given a clear reason for his dismissal from the group.
Freese handled the news with characteristic humor and grace. Ultimate Classic Rock noted that he later shared a tongue-in-cheek list of 10 possible reasons for his firing on social media. The list included humorous suggestions such as his habit of whistling “My Hero” for a week, demanding 20-minute cowbell sound baths before rehearsals, and his “poodle thing” which some thought was “getting to be a bit much.”
The drummer’s departure highlights the ongoing challenges Foo Fighters have faced in finding stability following Hawkins’ passing. San Francisco Chronicle documented that the band has struggled with lineup changes and the emotional weight of continuing without their longtime drummer and close friend. Freese’s brief tenure represented an attempt to move forward while honoring Hawkins’ legacy.
Despite the recent upheaval, Grohl’s statement emphasizes the band’s commitment to their shared journey. It also emphasizes the importance of acknowledging all who have contributed to their story. The timing of this reflection, coinciding with their 30th anniversary celebration, underscores the band’s resilience. It also underscores their determination to honor both their past and their future endeavors.
