In true Josh Freese fashion, the legendary drummer has opted to clear the air not with a dramatic tell-all, but with a sarcastic slap of humour that only a veteran with zero f**ks left to give could deliver.
Just days after confirming he’s no longer sitting behind the Foo Fighters kit, Freese has posted a self-roasting ‘Top 10’ list on Instagram titled: ‘Top 10 possible reasons Freese got booted from the Foos.’ Spoiler: it’s deeply unserious and deeply him.
Cowbells, poodles and Noodles: a list only Freese could write
The list is a chaotic blend of drummer in-jokes, Foo Fighters references, and dry-as-dust punchlines. Standouts include:
- #10: ‘Once whistled “My Hero” for a week solid on tour’ – enough to drive anyone mad on a bus.
- #8: ‘Two words: polyrhythms’ – a nod to his technicality in a band that thrives on meat-and-potatoes rock.
- #6: ‘Demanded starting every rehearsal with a 20 minute cowbell sound bath’ – might be a throwaway line, might be a spiritual awakening.
- #3: ‘Promised Noodles he could be 4th guitarist’ – a wink to his longtime mate from The Offspring.
- #1: ‘The whole poodle thing was getting to be a bit much’ – we don’t know what it means, and honestly, we’re afraid to ask.
Paired with hashtags like #peaceoutrainbowtrout and #byefelicia, the post reeks of Freese’s signature sense of humour: self-deprecating, a little absurd, and never too serious for a laugh. But between the punchlines, it lands like a curtain call, subtle, respectful, and final.
So why did he actually leave?
Freese announced his departure earlier this week in a statement that was more gracious than revealing. He wrote, ‘I’m sorry to disappoint those that had hoped to see me play with them. I was looking forward to that too!’ before teasing that he’d share some of his own theories later, which this list seems to be.
As for whether he was let go or caught in a shift he didn’t see coming, nothing’s been made official. But Freese admitted he was in a bit of shock over the change, suggesting the decision wasn’t entirely his. Still, there’s no bitterness in his response. He made it clear he’s still close with the band and has nothing but love for everyone involved.
Enter: Shane Hawkins?
Speculation about his replacement has naturally landed on Shane Hawkins, son of the late Taylor Hawkins, whose sudden passing in 2022 left a void that no one, not even a player as respected as Freese could fully fill.
Shane has played with the band before, most famously taking on ‘My Hero’ at Wembley during the Taylor Hawkins tribute concert in 2022. At just 17, his performance had grown men crying in the crowd, and many called it the most moving moment of the night. With Shane recently appearing on stage again and fans rallying for his permanent inclusion, it’s not hard to connect the dots.
Freese hasn’t commented on the speculation, but his graceful exit and focus on humour may be his way of passing the torch with nothing but goodwill.
What’s next for Freese?
Knowing Josh, he won’t be off the radar for long and already plays in a number of other bands. The man’s played with Nine Inch Nails, Devo, A Perfect Circle, and practically every second punk band from the ’90s and 2000s. His next move might be in a stadium or your favourite dive bar next Tuesday.
Whatever happens, this isn’t a sad farewell. It’s a classic Freese moment: irreverent, weird, and somehow full of heart.
Watch: Foo Fighters ft. Shane Hawkins Perform “My Hero”
RELATED
MORE IN Music
