Foo Fighters recently shared a satirical video on their social media platforms following their first concert of 2025 with new drummer Ilan Rubin. The video uses AI-generated versions of band members to make an ironic statement about authenticity in rock music, as reported by Foo Fighters.
The video features the band members discussing their commitment to delivering genuine, human performances to their fans.
“Hello everyone. It’s been a while but I’m happy to announce that Foo Fighters are coming back to bring you that %100 real, raw human element of rock and roll,” Dave Grohl said in the video. “I mean with a setlist like this, you can’t go wrong.”
The satirical nature of the video becomes apparent through deliberate AI imperfections. Dave Grohl appears with six fingers and Pat Smear with three legs.
“After 30 years of being a band, we realized that the most important thing to us is that what you see and hear coming from our speakers is the genuine passion of the six living, breathing human beings on the stage,” Nate Mendel added.
Fan reactions highlighted the band’s clever use of irony, with one commenting: “Oh my god, this is great. I know this is a skit because they would never use AI. They’re trying to make fun of that’s good.” Another fan wrote: “What an absolutely hilarious use of AI! This was unexpected.”
The timing of this satirical video coincides with significant developments in the band’s recent activities and lineup changes.
Digital Noise Magazine reported that the video follows their surprise show on September 13, 2025, in San Luis Obispo, California. The show marked their first performance of the year and the debut of Ilan Rubin as their new drummer. The energy at the Fremont Theater was electric. Fans camped overnight to secure tickets for what became an intimate venue performance.
Loudwire noted that Rubin’s addition to the lineup came after Josh Freese’s departure earlier in September 2024. This marks another significant transition for the band’s rhythm section. The San Luis Obispo show served as both a testing ground for the new lineup and a return to their roots of surprise, intimate performances.
The setlist for their comeback show spanned their career. Revolver Magazine confirmed that the band played hits including “Learn to Fly” and “Everlong.” This demonstrated their commitment to delivering the authentic rock experience they satirically promoted in their AI video.
The video serves as the band’s commentary on the increasing use of artificial intelligence in music production and performance. It reinforces their emphasis on authentic human musicianship amid evolving technology trends in the industry. This stance aligns with their long-standing reputation for prioritizing genuine musical craftsmanship over technological shortcuts.
