Foo Fighters have reportedly recruited a new drummer, while former sticksman Josh Freese appears to have landed a fresh gig of his own — returning to a familiar stage.
Back in May, the band announced that Freese had been let go from his role, a decision that left him “shocked” and “disappointed.” Freese had joined Foo Fighters as their touring drummer in 2023, following the tragic passing of Taylor Hawkins in March 2022.
Since his departure, fans have been speculating over who might take up the drum stool, with names like Hawkins’ son Shane and Soundgarden/Pearl Jam’s Matt Cameron being tossed into the mix.
The Hollywood Reporter claims that the band has quietly brought on Ilan Rubin — best known for his work with Nine Inch Nails — as their new drummer. The report cites anonymous sources, and neither the Foo Fighters nor Rubin have confirmed the news officially.
Rubin’s resume goes beyond Nine Inch Nails — he also recorded drums on Paramore’s 2013 self-titled album and has performed with artists such as Danny Elfman.
Meanwhile, Nine Inch Nails have all but confirmed Rubin’s departure, sharing a post featuring a photo of Josh Freese that strongly suggests Freese is rejoining the band — marking his second stint as their drummer.
Freese previously played with Nine Inch Nails between 2005 and 2008, before ironically being replaced by Rubin.
Reflecting on his return to Nine Inch Nails, Josh Freese said leaving the band in 2008 to prioritise family was one of the toughest decisions of his life. He recalled the intensity and satisfaction of performing with NIN, calling it an experience few others have matched.
Now back on tour with Trent Reznor and the crew, Freese said he’s thrilled to be back with the energy and promise of unforgettable shows in the coming weeks.
Regarding his surprise dismissal from Foo Fighters earlier this year, Freese said he was told the band was “going in a different direction” with no explanation but added he enjoyed his two years with them and supports their decision.
He later poked fun at the situation by sharing a list of “10 possible reasons” why he was let go — including joking that he whistled ‘My Hero’ non-stop on tour, or that he began every rehearsal with a 20-minute cowbell “sound bath”.
As for Foo Fighters, they recently announced they will kick off their 2025 touring schedule with a performance at the Singapore F1 Grand Prix. They have also confirmed world tour dates in Indonesia and Japan. The band recently shared a cover of Minor Threat’s “I Don’t Wanna Hear It” and celebrated their 30th anniversary with a new single, “Today’s Song”.
Frontman Dave Grohl also took a moment earlier this year to thank all past members of the band for their contributions. Their upcoming tour in October will be the band’s first set of shows since Grohl made headlines last year, when he revealed he had fathered a child outside of his marriage.
The Foos may have had a rocky few years, but with a new chapter seemingly beginning behind the drums, the band is gearing up for a major return to the stage.