John Hoffman, Primus’s new drummer, recently shared details about the emotional moment he learned he had secured the position with the band. Westword reported on his experience.
Hoffman described the surprise announcement that took place during what he thought was a casual crew gathering.
“The crew was having a bit of a wrap party,” Hoffman said. “We’re all just hanging out; there were probably 25, thirty people there, all close friends of the band and the band members and crew. I didn’t realize it, but they had already chosen me. I was under the impression that it was going to be two or three weeks before they made an announcement, because they had to go over all the footage and all that.”
The drummer explained how the realization hit him when he saw a cake at the gathering.
“It took me a few seconds to process what was going on,” he continued. “Then, when I saw the cake…I was 100 percent sure what was happening. I started crying full-on.”
Hoffman went on to describe his attempt to maintain composure in front of the crowd.
“I was in a room full of people and I was trying so hard not to really, really cry in front of people — if I had been by myself, I would have been rolling on the floor,” he said. “It was a total surprise; I had no idea it was coming. It was an overwhelming feeling of joy, relief, any word you can imagine that would describe the feeling of joy.”
Hoffman’s emotional reaction reflects the significance of joining one of rock’s most distinctive bands. It also highlights the competitive process that led to his selection.
Relix reported that Hoffman was chosen from over 6,200 applicants who participated in what the band called the “Interstellar Drum Derby.” The extensive search process involved nine finalists competing for the position following the departure of longtime drummer Tim “Herb” Alexander.
The Shreveport, Louisiana native brings extensive experience to the role. He started playing drums at the remarkably young age of two. Loudwire noted that Hoffman embarked on his first national tour at just 17 years old, demonstrating his early commitment to professional music.
Hoffman’s connection to Primus predates his recent selection. He previously played percussion with the six-piece band Dirtfoot, which served as Primus’ supporting act during their 2011 tour. This prior relationship with the band likely contributed to his understanding of their unique musical style and stage presence.
Stereogum revealed that both the band and fans are excited to see how Hoffman’s inventive and deeply funky drumming style will bring new artistic horizons to the group. His debut with Primus is set to take place at their upcoming Red Rocks show, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the influential rock band.
