Dave Grohl recently shared an open letter to fans addressing the Foo Fighters’ return to the stage and their new chapter, as posted on Instagram.
The message highlighted the band’s reunion and introduced drummer Ilan Rubin as a key part of their renewed lineup. Grohl expressed enthusiasm about the band’s direction and their connection with fans.
“Since our return to the stage in San Luis Obispo five weeks ago, we have been reminded of why we love and are forever devoted to doing this Foo Fighters thing,” Grohl said. “From reuniting as a band and staring at a list of 30 years worth of songs to brush off, to reimagining versions with the incredible blessing of the one and only Ilan Rubin behind the drums, to reconnecting with our amazing fans and blasting them with everything we’ve got (no matter the size of the venue) because we would not be here without them, we have the most solid core.”
Grohl reflected on his long-standing friendship with Josh Homme of Queens of the Stone Age. He announced a collaboration between the two bands.
“In 1992, I first saw the legendary Kyuss perform at the Off Ramp in Seattle and met Mr. Josh Homme,” he continued. “The band were friends of a friend, and before long their album Blues for the Red Sun became the soundtrack to that summer. 33 years later and with many miles behind us, I have shared some of my life’s most rewarding musical moments with my dear friend, Josh. A lifelong bond that goes far beyond the sound we’ve made together exists between us. So it is with great happiness that we can share this next chapter together with his almighty Queens of the Stone Age.”
The announcement included news of new music from the band. “But none of this would be complete without new music to share from Pat, Nate, Chris, Rami, Ilan and I,” Grohl stated. “‘Asking for a Friend’ is a song for those who have waited patiently in the cold, relying on hope and faith for their horizon to appear. Searching for ‘proof’ when hanging by a wish until the sun shines again. One of many songs to come.”
The introduction of Ilan Rubin as the new Foo Fighters drummer marks a significant transition for the band following the tragic passing of longtime drummer Taylor Hawkins. Understanding Rubin’s credentials and the circumstances surrounding this change provides important context for fans navigating this new era.
Ilan Rubin is a highly accomplished drummer with extensive experience in acclaimed bands such as Nine Inch Nails, Paramore, and Angels & Airwaves, as detailed on Wikipedia. His career began remarkably early. He made history as the youngest musician to ever perform at Woodstock at just 11 years old, demonstrating exceptional talent from a young age.
Rubin’s credentials extend beyond his touring experience. Loudwire notes that he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2020 as the youngest living inductee at that time. This recognition highlights his significant stature within the rock music community and underscores the caliber of musician Grohl has selected to carry forward the Foo Fighters’ legacy.
Josh Freese filled the iconic drumming role following Taylor Hawkins’s passing in March 2022, and he was recently replaced by Rubin earlier this year. Consequence reported that Freese has a strong pedigree, having previously toured with Nine Inch Nails and played with numerous well-known acts. His departure raised concerns among some fans about how the change could affect the band’s dynamic. Freese’s established presence on recent Foo Fighters albums and tours made the transition particularly notable.
The switch also sparked excitement within the fanbase. Rubin brings a unique pedigree and continuity—he succeeded Freese in Nine Inch Nails before joining Foo Fighters. This connection between the two drummers through their shared Nine Inch Nails history adds an interesting layer to the transition, suggesting a natural progression rather than a complete departure from the band’s musical direction.
