In a major shift in the rock world, the Foo Fighters and Nine Inch Nails have reportedly exchanged drummers, according to a report from Deadline. This reshuffle marks a significant moment for both bands and their fans.
Josh Freese, who had been playing with the Foo Fighters since 2023 following the death of longtime drummer Taylor Hawkins, is reportedly returning to Nine Inch Nails, where he previously toured from 2005 to 2008. Freese was released from his role with the Foo Fighters in May 2025, stating that the band informed him of their decision to "go in a different direction" without providing a specific reason.
In turn, Ilan Rubin—longtime drummer for Nine Inch Nails—is said to be taking Freese’s place in the Foo Fighters. Rubin, who became the youngest person ever inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2020 at age 32, reportedly told Trent Reznor last week that he had accepted a job with another band. Nine Inch Nails’ U.S. tour begins August 6 in Oakland, but Rubin is no longer expected to participate.
While official confirmation from the Foo Fighters is still pending, Nine Inch Nails appeared to subtly confirm the news via an Instagram story featuring a photo of Freese with the caption Lets fucking go.
General Context
Josh Freese’s departure came after a relatively short tenure with Foo Fighters. Despite stepping in during a challenging transitional period for the band, he stated publicly that he respected the decision and enjoyed his time with them. The Foo Fighters are scheduled to return to the stage on October 2, 2025, in Jakarta, Indonesia, marking their first live show of the year.
Ilan Rubin, meanwhile, has been a central figure in Nine Inch Nails' modern sound, contributing not only as a drummer but also as a multi-instrumentalist and solo artist. His exit from the band is notable given his longstanding relationship with Reznor and the group.
Critic's Take
This swap might appear symbolic of deeper artistic or strategic shifts in both bands. For the Foo Fighters, bringing in Rubin could indicate a desire to evolve their sound, as Rubin's versatility extends beyond drumming. On the other hand, the return of Freese to Nine Inch Nails suggests a reconnection with their classic touring lineup—perhaps signaling a nostalgic or more aggressive live approach.
Though fans might be caught off guard by the unexpected swap, it reflects the fluid nature of modern rock bands, where history, chemistry, and creative needs often outweigh permanence. Still, it raises questions: Was Freese let go too abruptly? Will Rubin’s energy reshape the Foo Fighters’ live dynamic? The full impact remains to be seen when both bands hit the stage later this year.
Stay tuned for official statements and live performance reviews in the months to come.
