The Foo Fighters have reportedly secured their new drummer in Ilan Rubin, a renowned multi-instrumentalist celebrated for his contributions to Nine Inch Nails. This news was initially reported by The Hollywood Reporter. Rubin, who made history by being inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame with Nine Inch Nails at the young age of 32 in 2020, is stepping into the role just months after the Foo Fighters parted ways with Josh Freese.
Transitioning Drummers
Josh Freese had joined the Foo Fighters in 2023 following the heartbreaking loss of their longtime drummer Taylor Hawkins in 2022. In May of this year, Freese announced his departure, expressing that the band had opted to “go in a different direction.” He conveyed feelings of shock and disappointment but stated that he held no anger towards the decision.
Ilan Rubin’s New Role
Rubin, who has been a live drummer for Nine Inch Nails since 2009 and has collaborated frequently with composer Danny Elfman, recently communicated to Nine Inch Nails frontman Trent Reznor that he would be taking on “a job with another band.” It remains uncertain whether Rubin’s involvement with the Foo Fighters will be permanent or limited to touring. However, it’s worth noting that this shift corresponds with Freese rejoining Nine Inch Nails, where he previously performed from 2005 to 2008. The band confirmed this reunion on Instagram, sharing a photo of Freese with the enthusiastic caption, “let’s fucking go.”
Upcoming Tours
This drummer reshuffling comes just ahead of Nine Inch Nails‘ North American tour, which kicks off on August 6 in Oakland, and shortly before the Foo Fighters return to the stage starting October 2 in Jakarta, Indonesia, with additional stops planned in Singapore, Tokyo, Osaka, and Mexico City.
New Music and Tributes
Recently, the Foo Fighters released “Today’s Song,” marking their first new music since 2023 in celebration of their 30th anniversary. In a heartfelt letter to fans, frontman Dave Grohl reflected on the band’s journey, acknowledging both triumphs and challenges, and paying tribute to Hawkins. He also expressed gratitude towards Freese, stating, “Without the thunderous wizardry of Josh Freese, this story would be incomplete.”
Looking Ahead
As for Rubin, his future with the Foo Fighters is still developing. However, given his impressive background, versatility, and history of genre-defining performances, fans can anticipate that the next chapter of the band’s legacy will be powerful, seasoned, and filled with purpose.
Tour Dates
Nine Inch Nails Tour Dates
- 8/6 Oakland, CA – Oakland Arena
- 8/8 Portland, OR – Moda Center
- 8/10 Vancouver, BC – Rogers Arena
- 8/12 Seattle, WA – Climate Pledge Arena
- 8/14 Salt Lake City, UT – Maverik Center
- 8/15 Denver, CO – Ball Arena
- 8/17 Saint Paul, MN – Xcel Energy Center
- 8/19 Chicago, IL – United Center
- 8/20 Chicago, IL – United Center
- 8/22 Detroit, MI – Little Caesars Arena
- 8/23 Toronto, ON – Scotiabank Arena
- 8/26 Baltimore, MD – CFG Bank Arena
- 8/27 Philadelphia, PA – Wells Fargo Center
- 8/29 Boston, MA – TD Garden
- 8/31 Cleveland, OH – R.M. Fieldhouse
- 9/2 Brooklyn, NY – Barclays Center
- 9/3 Brooklyn, NY – Barclays Center
- 9/5 Raleigh, NC – Lenovo Center
- 9/6 Nashville, TN – Bridgestone Arena
- 9/9 Duluth, GA – Gas South Arena
- 9/10 Tampa, FL – Amalie Arena
- 9/12 Houston, TX – Toyota Center
- 9/13 Fort Worth, TX – Dickies Arena
- 9/16 Phoenix, AZ – PHX Arena
- 9/18 Los Angeles, CA – Kia Forum
- 9/19 Los Angeles, CA – Kia Forum
Foo Fighters Tour Dates
- 10/2 Jakarta, Indonesia – Carnaval Ancol
- 10/4 Singapore, Singapore – F1
- 10/7 Tokyo, Japan – Saitama Super Arena
- 10/8 Tokyo, Japan – Saitama Super Arena
- 10/10 Osaka, Japan – Glion Arena Kobe
- 11/14 Mexico City, Mexico – Corona Capital
Conclusion
The transition of drummers within both Foo Fighters and Nine Inch Nails marks a significant moment for both bands. With Ilan Rubin stepping in, the Foo Fighters are poised to embrace a new chapter while honoring the legacy of their past. Fans are eager to witness how these changes will shape the sound and direction of the bands in the coming years.
FAQs
Who is Ilan Rubin?
Ilan Rubin is a multi-instrumentalist best known for his work with Nine Inch Nails and has recently been reported as the new drummer for the Foo Fighters.
Why did Josh Freese leave the Foo Fighters?
Josh Freese announced his departure from the Foo Fighters in May 2023, stating that the band chose to “go in a different direction.” He expressed feelings of shock and disappointment but no anger regarding the decision.
What are the upcoming tour dates for Nine Inch Nails and Foo Fighters?
Both bands have extensive tour schedules lined up, with Nine Inch Nails kicking off their North American tour on August 6 and the Foo Fighters starting their tour on October 2.
What new music have the Foo Fighters released recently?
The Foo Fighters released “Today’s Song,” their first new music since 2023, in celebration of their 30th anniversary.
