Josh Freese, former Foo Fighters drummer, has shared a humorous top 10 list about his departure on Instagram.
Freese created a satirical list of potential reasons for his exit, responding to recent speculation with humor.
“Top 10 possible reasons Freese got booted from the Foos:
10) Once whistled ‘My Hero’ for a week solid on tour.
9) Could only name one Fugazi song.
8) Two words: polyrhythms.
7) Metronome-like precision behind the kit deemed ‘soulless.’
6) Demanded starting every rehearsal with a 20-minute cowbell sound bath.
5) Never even once tried growing a beard.
4) Didn’t show up to studio because Mercury was in retrograde.
3) Promised Noodles [The Offspring] he could be 4th guitarist.
2) Refused to perform unless he was guaranteed a Ouija board and nunchucks after every show.
1) The whole poodle thing was getting to be a bit much.”
His playful post followed an unexpected departure from Foo Fighters. The drummer’s sense of humor remains intact despite the situation.
The circumstances of Freese’s departure have captured the music industry’s attention, despite the list’s comedic nature.
Guitar World revealed that Freese joined the band in 2023 after Taylor Hawkins’ passing. Notable drummers Chad Smith, Tommy Lee, and Danny Carey supported his appointment.
The drummer’s career spans collaborations with many prominent acts. American Songwriter highlighted his work with Guns N’ Roses, Nine Inch Nails, and Devo. Freese has also built a successful career as a session artist, working with Good Charlotte, Avril Lavigne, and Kelly Clarkson.
98KUPD noted Freese’s admission of feeling “shocked and disappointed.” This marks his first band dismissal in a 40-year career. Nevertheless, he maintains an optimistic perspective.
Freese has voiced support for the band’s decision. He acknowledges that such transitions are common in his freelance music career.
