Josh Freese recently opened up about his departure from Foo Fighters. He shared his perspective on joining and leaving the band in an interview with The New York Times.
The drummer addressed the pressures he faced stepping into the role after Taylor Hawkins’ death. He also reflected on his eventual dismissal from the group.
“As a hired musician, especially a drummer, you have to deliver and deliver consistently,” Freese said. “Otherwise, whatever opportunity you have, whatever door is open, will shut really fast. So, you’ve always got to be ready.”
He described the intense pressure of replacing the beloved late drummer Taylor Hawkins.
“I’m coming in as Dave Grohl’s drummer, and the guy that’s supposed to save the day after the beloved Taylor Hawkins died,” he continued. “[Taking over for Hawkins felt] like I had to be firing on all cylinders all the time.”
Freese suggested the issue may have been beyond musical differences regarding his departure from the band.
“Looking back, it [Foo Fighters firing] was probably more an issue with their management,” he said. “It wasn’t music that I really resonated with.”
Freese’s journey with Foo Fighters began in 2023. This marked a significant chapter in both his career and the band’s evolution following their devastating loss.
Rock Shot Magazine reported that Freese joined Foo Fighters in 2023, two years after Taylor Hawkins’ tragic passing. He helped carry the band through an emotionally charged era, including the release of their But Here We Are album. His technical skill and professionalism quickly earned him respect within the group and fans alike.
Despite his contributions during global tours and tribute concerts, Drummer World revealed that Freese was abruptly informed in May 2025 that the band was “going in a different direction.” This left him “shocked and disappointed” but not bitter. The sudden nature of his dismissal caught many in the music industry by surprise, given his seamless integration into the band’s dynamic.
Freese’s departure has sparked speculation about the band’s future direction. Rock Shot Magazine noted that fans have suggested that 18-year-old Shane Hawkins, Taylor’s son, could be a meaningful candidate to join the band. However, no official confirmation has been made.
The veteran drummer handled his dismissal with characteristic professionalism and humor. He is known as one of the most sought-after session musicians in the industry. Drummer World documented that Freese coped with his dismissal by sharing a mock top ten list for reasons he might have been let go. He balanced honesty and humor while maintaining his reputation in an industry where relationships matter significantly.
