Dave Grohl on Foo Fighters’ Split With Josh Freese: ‘Continuing on After Taylor Was Really Complicated’

Rolling Stone Music

by Althea Legaspi

February 22, 2026

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Dave Grohl has revealed new insights into the Foo Fighters' decision to part ways with drummer Josh Freese in a recent interview with Zane Lowe. The frontman explained that the split, which occurred after nearly two years of collaboration, was not an easy or sudden decision. Grohl emphasized how challenging it was for the band to move forward following the tragic loss of Taylor Hawkins, who had been the group's drummer for 25 out of their 30 years together. Freese joined the band in May 2023 after Hawkins' passing and contributed significantly during a tour that lasted over a year and a half. However, after taking a break and reflecting on their next steps, the band collectively decided to explore a new direction with a different drummer. Grohl praised Freese for his professionalism and extensive experience, acknowledging how difficult it was for any drummer to fill Hawkins' shoes. He shared that the band expressed gratitude to Freese during their final conversation, thanking him for his contributions but explaining they felt it was time to move in a new musical direction. Freese later revealed on Instagram that no specific reason was given for the split and noted he didn't feel the music resonated with him as intended. The decision not to publicly address the split through press releases or social media highlights the band's desire to handle the situation privately, focusing instead on their creative evolution. Foo Fighters has since enlisted Ilan Rubin of Nine Inch Nails as their new

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Originally published on Rolling Stone Music on 2/22/2026