Early Years and Foundations

Born into a musical family, Josh Freese's path was practically predetermined. His father, Stan Freese, was a musical director for Disneyland, exposing young Josh to a diverse range of musical styles and performance environments. This early immersion fueled his passion for music and laid the groundwork for his impressive musical vocabulary.

• Started playing drums at age 8.
• Played professionally in Disneyland's Top 40 band at age 12.
• Developed exceptional sight-reading skills early on, a crucial asset for session work.

These formative years were instrumental in shaping Freese's exceptional timekeeping, versatility, and professional attitude – qualities that would become his trademarks.

The Session Ace: A Drummer for Every Genre

Freese's reputation as a session drummer extraordinaire stems from his ability to seamlessly adapt to any musical style. He isn't just a drummer; he's a chameleon, capable of providing the perfect rhythmic foundation for any genre, from rock and pop to country and jazz. This versatility is what made him a go-to choice for countless artists.

Key Collaborations and Albums

The list of artists Josh Freese has worked with reads like a who's who of the music industry. Here are just a few notable examples:

• Nine Inch Nails: Freese was a touring and recording member of Nine Inch Nails for several years, contributing his powerful drumming to albums like "With Teeth" and "Year Zero".
• A Perfect Circle: His work with A Perfect Circle showcases his ability to blend technical proficiency with atmospheric sensitivity.
• Sting: Freese has toured and recorded with Sting, demonstrating his ability to play sophisticated and nuanced rhythms in a pop context.
• Devo: A long-time member of Devo, Freese brought his energy and precision to their iconic sound.
• Weezer: Provided drums on multiple Weezer albums, adding his signature touch to their catchy pop-rock anthems.
• Guns N' Roses: Freese filled in for Frank Ferrer during Guns N' Roses 2023 tour dates.

This diverse range of collaborations highlights Freese's adaptability and his ability to elevate the music of any artist he works with. Beyond these well-known names, he's contributed to countless other projects, often uncredited, further solidifying his status as a session drumming legend.

Skills and Attributes of a Top Session Drummer

What sets Josh Freese apart from other drummers? It's more than just technical skill; it's a combination of factors:

• Exceptional Timekeeping: Impeccable timing is the foundation of any great drummer, and Freese's is legendary.
• Versatility: The ability to play in a wide range of styles is crucial for session work.
• Sight-Reading Proficiency: Freese's ability to quickly learn and perform complex drum parts from sheet music is a major asset.
• Adaptability: He can seamlessly adapt to different musical situations and work effectively with different artists.
• Professionalism: Freese is known for his positive attitude, reliability, and willingness to go the extra mile.
• Sound and Tone: His ability to craft a specific drum sound based on the song requirements.

These skills, combined with his natural talent and unwavering dedication, have made him one of the most in-demand session drummers in the world.

Solo Work and Side Projects

While primarily known for his session work, Josh Freese has also pursued his own creative endeavors, showcasing his songwriting and musical vision.

Solo Albums

Freese has released several solo albums, displaying his eclectic musical tastes and songwriting abilities. These albums often feature a mix of rock, pop, and experimental elements, highlighting his versatility as a musician.

• Since 1972
• The Notorious One Man Orgy
• Rocktopus
• My New Friends

These albums, while not commercially mainstream, offer a glimpse into Freese's creative process and his ability to craft compelling music outside the confines of session work.

Other Bands and Collaborations

Beyond his solo work and session drumming, Freese has been involved in numerous other bands and collaborations, further demonstrating his diverse musical interests.

• The Vandals: Freese was the drummer for the punk rock band The Vandals for many years, bringing his energy and precision to their fast-paced music.
• Devo: He became a permanent member of Devo in the 1990s, contributing to their albums and tours.

These projects allow Freese to explore different musical styles and collaborate with other talented musicians, enriching his already vast musical experience.

The Gear: Josh Freese's Drumming Arsenal

A crucial aspect of any drummer's sound is their gear. Josh Freese has used a variety of drum kits, cymbals, and other equipment throughout his career, tailoring his setup to suit the specific needs of each project. Here's a glimpse into his typical setup, though it's important to note that his preferences often change.

Drum Kits

Freese has been known to use drum kits from various manufacturers, including:

• DW Drums: DW is a popular choice among professional drummers, known for their high-quality craftsmanship and versatile sound. Freese often uses DW kits for both studio and live performances.
• Tama Drums: Tama is another reputable drum manufacturer, offering a wide range of kits suitable for different musical styles.

His specific kit configurations often vary depending on the gig, but he typically favors kits with a balanced tonal range and responsive feel.

Cymbals

Cymbals are a crucial component of a drummer's sound, and Freese has experimented with various brands and models. He's often seen using cymbals from:

• Zildjian: One of the most iconic cymbal manufacturers, Zildjian offers a wide range of cymbals suitable for any musical style.
• Paiste: Paiste cymbals are known for their bright and shimmering sound.

He selects his cymbals carefully to achieve the desired tonal characteristics for each project, often mixing and matching different brands and models.

Other Equipment

In addition to drums and cymbals, Freese also utilizes a variety of other equipment, including:

• Drumheads: His choice of drumheads influences the tone and sustain of his drums.
• Sticks: He has his own signature drumstick with Vater.
• Microphones: When recording, the choice of microphones is crucial for capturing the nuances of his drumming.
• Electronics: Occasionally, he incorporates electronic drums or triggers into his setup, particularly when playing with bands like Nine Inch Nails or Devo.

Freese's attention to detail extends to every aspect of his equipment, ensuring that he always has the right tools for the job.

Joining the Foo Fighters: A New Chapter

In May 2023, the music world was rocked by the announcement that Josh Freese would be the new drummer for the Foo Fighters, following the tragic passing of Taylor Hawkins. This marked a significant turning point in Freese's career, propelling him from the realm of session drumming to the forefront of one of the world's biggest rock bands.

The Announcement and Fan Reaction

The announcement was met with widespread excitement and anticipation from Foo Fighters fans. Freese's reputation as a world-class drummer and his extensive experience made him a natural choice to fill the void left by Hawkins. While no one could ever truly replace Taylor, Freese was widely regarded as the best possible fit for the band's musical style and energy.

First Performances and Initial Impressions

Freese's first performances with the Foo Fighters were met with rave reviews. He seamlessly integrated into the band's sound, delivering powerful and precise drumming that honored Hawkins' legacy while also adding his own unique flair. Critics and fans alike praised his energy, his technical skill, and his ability to capture the spirit of the Foo Fighters' music.

Impact on the Band's Sound and Future

While it's still early in his tenure with the Foo Fighters, Freese's impact on the band's sound is already apparent. His drumming brings a new level of precision and power to their music, while also allowing them to explore new sonic territories. As the band continues to evolve, Freese's contributions will undoubtedly play a significant role in shaping their future direction.

His studio drumming is all over "But Here We Are" (2023), and "But Here We Are" became Foo Fighter's 11th album to reach the top 10 in the U.S. Billboard 200 chart. Freese has also participated in the "Everything or Nothing at All Tour" which started in May 2024.

Freese's Drumming Style

Josh Freese's drumming style is a captivating blend of precision, power, and musicality. His ability to seamlessly navigate diverse genres and adapt to various musical contexts stems from a deeply ingrained understanding of rhythm, timing, and groove. He is not merely a timekeeper but an active participant in shaping the overall soundscape of the music.

Key Characteristics of Freese's Style

• Impeccable Timekeeping: At the core of Freese's drumming lies unwavering timekeeping. His ability to maintain a steady tempo and create a solid rhythmic foundation is paramount to his success as a session drummer. This allows him to anchor the music and provide a stable platform for other musicians to build upon.
• Versatile Groove: Freese's groove is not limited to a single style. He possesses a remarkable ability to adapt his groove to suit the specific needs of each song. Whether it's a hard-hitting rock beat, a subtle jazz swing, or a funky syncopation, Freese can effortlessly lock in and deliver a groove that feels authentic and compelling.
• Dynamic Nuance: Freese's drumming is characterized by a keen attention to dynamics. He understands the importance of using subtle variations in volume and intensity to create emotional impact and add depth to the music. His sensitive touch allows him to bring out the nuances of each song and enhance its overall expressive power.
• Technical Prowess: While Freese is known for his musicality and groove, he also possesses impressive technical skills. He is capable of executing complex patterns and fills with precision and clarity. However, he never lets his technical abilities overshadow the music. Instead, he uses them judiciously to enhance the overall musical experience.
• Musical Sensitivity: What truly sets Freese apart is his deep musical sensitivity. He listens intently to the other musicians and responds accordingly, creating a cohesive and engaging musical dialogue. His ability to anticipate changes and adapt to the flow of the music is a testament to his exceptional musicianship.

Examples in Specific Songs

Freese's drumming style is evident in numerous recordings across a wide range of genres. Here are a few examples that showcase his versatility and musicality:

• "The Hand That Feeds" (Nine Inch Nails): In this track, Freese delivers a driving, industrial-tinged beat that perfectly complements the song's aggressive energy. His use of heavy, syncopated rhythms creates a sense of urgency and intensity.
• "Judith" (A Perfect Circle): Here, Freese showcases his ability to blend technical prowess with atmospheric sensitivity. His drumming is precise and powerful, yet also nuanced and expressive, creating a haunting and ethereal soundscape.
• "Everlong" (Foo Fighters - Live Performances): While originally recorded by Taylor Hawkins, Freese's live performances of this classic Foo Fighters track demonstrate his ability to capture the energy and spirit of the original while also adding his own unique flair.

The Future of Josh Freese

With his new role as the drummer for the Foo Fighters, Josh Freese is poised to reach even greater heights in his already illustrious career. His talent, experience, and unwavering dedication to his craft will undoubtedly continue to shape the landscape of modern music.

Potential Future Projects and Collaborations

While his primary focus is likely to be on the Foo Fighters for the foreseeable future, Freese is sure to continue exploring other musical avenues as well. He may pursue further solo projects, collaborate with other artists, or contribute to film scores or other creative endeavors. His versatility and adaptability make him a valuable asset to any musical project.

Legacy and Influence on Drummers

Josh Freese's legacy as a drummer is already secure. He is widely regarded as one of the most talented and versatile drummers of his generation, and his influence on other drummers is undeniable. His dedication to his craft, his musical sensitivity, and his unwavering professionalism serve as an inspiration to aspiring musicians everywhere.

The Enduring Impact on Music

Josh Freese's contributions to music are immeasurable. He has played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of countless albums and live performances, and his influence will continue to be felt for generations to come. His versatility, musicality, and unwavering dedication to his craft have made him a true drumming icon. From Disneyland to session god, to Foo Fighter -- he truly is a drumming dynamo.