Keeping Up With the Foos: Tours & Songs & Drummers, Oh My!

Looks like Christmas came early for Foo Fighters fans! In just late October this year, the rock group released their brand-new song, “Asking For A Friend,” as well as twelve dates for a North American tour.

Founder and lead vocalist, Dave Grohl, took to Facebook to share the news. The legend wrote, “Since our return to the stage in San Luis Obispo five weeks ago, we have been reminded of why we love and are forever devoted to doing this Foo Fighters thing.”

Following the death of former drummer Taylor Hawkins in March of 2022, loyal fans feared that it might mark the end of the band. However, former Nine Inch Nails drummer Josh Freese was selected to take over behind the kit as the group moved ahead.

Now, a new era begins, as Freese was ironically replaced by another Nine Inch Nails member, Ilan Rubin; Amidst this repositioning, Freese returned to Nine Inch Nails.

In Grohl’s caption on Facebook, the singer mentioned that they had been “reimagining versions [of songs] with the incredible blessing of the one and only Ilan Rubin behind the drums.” Through all the change, Grohl is still chanting into the microphone while Pat Smear and Chris Shiflett shred on the guitar.

“Asking For A Friend” is the NIN alumni’s first song with his new bandmates, and from what fans can tell, he fits right in. In classic Foo Fighters fashion, the piece features a slow and steady introduction, transitioning into a guitar-heavy first verse. Rugged as ever, Grohl’s voice delivers a catchy chorus.

“Save your promises until we meet again,
You can save all your promises until the bitter end
What is real? I’m asking for a friend
What is real? I’m asking for a friend
Or is this the end?””

— Foo Fighters

During the last minute, the song comes to life. Rubin bursts into the bridge with a quick run on the drums, kicking open the door for a powerful guitar solo. And, of course, the song would not be complete without Grohl’s trademark heavy-metal screams.

The musician recently explained the meaning behind the bands music. He said, “’Asking For a Friend’ is a song for those who have waited patiently in the cold, relying on hope and faith for their horizon to appear. Searching for ‘proof’ when hanging by a wish until the sun shines again.”

After all, any true rocker knows that hope is typically served with a side of head-banging.

Wondering what is next for the Foos? Well, apparently the future is bright. The group says that this is just “One of many songs to come…”

So, that begs the question, could an album be underway? Guess we will have to wait and see. And in the meantime, fans can register for presale.

Are you a fan of Foo Fighters? Leave a comment below.