Just Who Is the Foo Fighters New Drummer Josh Freese?

Josh Freese is one of the most versatile and respected drummers in the contemporary music scene, gaining worldwide recognition for his impeccable technique, musicality, and vast experience. He has worked with some of the most influential and celebrated artists in pop, rock, punk, and alternative music and has contributed to countless hit records and live performances, earning him a reputation as a true icon of modern drumming.

Born in Florida in 1972, Josh Freese demonstrated a natural talent and passion for music from a young age. He started taking drum lessons at the age of nine, and by the time he was in high school, he was already playing in local bands and developing his style and skills. His early influences included classic rock, punk, and jazz, and he was particularly inspired by the playing of drummers like John Bonham, Stewart Copeland, and Neil Peart.

In the early 1990s, Josh Freese moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career in music, and soon after, he caught the attention of some of the city’s most respected musicians. He quickly established himself as a first-call session drummer, recording and touring with a wide range of artists, from Guns N’ Roses and A Perfect Circle to Paul Westerberg and Sting. His versatility, precision, and creativity made him a sought-after collaborator, and he quickly gained a reputation as one of the most reliable and professional musicians in the industry.

In 1996, Josh Freese joined the band The Vandals, where he became the permanent drummer and contributed to several of their most successful albums, including Hitler Bad, Vandals Good and Look What I Almost Stepped In. He also co-wrote many of the band’s songs and became known for his quirky and humorous lyrics, which often contrasted with his intense and dynamic drumming.

In 1998, Josh Freese was invited to join A Perfect Circle, the progressive rock supergroup formed by Maynard James Keenan of Tool. He played on their debut album, Mer de Noms, which became a commercial and critical success, earning Freese accolades for his intricate and dynamic drumming. He remained with the band until 2013, contributing to their subsequent albums and tours.

In addition to his role with The Vandals and A Perfect Circle, Josh Freese has worked extensively as a session drummer and guest musician, collaborating with a diverse range of artists, including Nine Inch Nails, Devo, Paramore, Weezer, and The Replacements. His impressive discography includes over 400 albums, and he has received multiple nominations and awards for his drumming and songwriting.

In 2023, Josh Freese was announced as the new drummer of the Foo Fighters, one of the most iconic and influential rock bands of the past three decades. He replaced the lateTaylor Hawkins, who had been the band’s drummer since 1997. Hawkins passed away in 2022.

Freese will join Dave Grohl, Nate Mendel, Pat Smear, and Chris Shiflett for their upcoming tour in support of the latest Foos album, playing his first show with the band in May of 2023. His addition to the Foo Fighters has been widely celebrated by fans and fellow musicians, who recognize his talent and experience as a perfect match for the band’s energetic and diverse style.

Overall, Josh Freese’s biography is a testament to his dedication, skill, and versatility as a drummer and musician. He has proven himself as a master of many styles and genres and has contributed to some of the most important and influential records of the past three decades. As he joins the Foo Fighters for their next chapter, the world of music awaits with bated breath to see what he will bring to the table.