by Alex Feder, Linkin Park’s touring guitarist, recently shared concerns about job security in the music industry during an interview featured on Andertons Music Co.
Feder discussed the challenges touring musicians face. Visibility and performance quality can significantly impact employment opportunities. He highlighted the precarious nature of securing and maintaining high-profile gigs.
“You can kind of get away with not playing great if you look the right way, and your guitar is not really very audible, and they’re gonna hit the track,” Feder explained. “This means they can hire a 22-year-old with no touring experience, pay them nothing, and they’re gonna be super jazzed to do it. There are artists that do that.”
Feder emphasized that even the most accomplished musicians are not immune to sudden job loss. He pointed to Josh Freese as a cautionary example. Freese is widely regarded as one of the top session and touring drummers in the world.
“So if a big act comes along, unfortunately, if you’re maybe the top call guy in the world…I mean, look, even Josh Freese is probably the top call guy in the world, and we don’t know why, but he lost the Foo Fighters gig,” Feder said. “Who knows why, but that goes to show that you can be the best. You could have been on every top gig there is. And maybe tomorrow you’re gonna wake up and your job’s gonna be gone.”
Feder’s concerns reflect a broader reality within the music industry. Even elite-level performers face unexpected career disruptions. His use of Josh Freese as an example underscores how unpredictable the touring circuit can be, regardless of a musician’s credentials or track record.
Wikipedia notes that Josh Freese built a prolific career as a session and touring drummer. He has played with notable acts such as Nine Inch Nails, A Perfect Circle, and the Foo Fighters. Despite his reputation as one of the most sought-after drummers in rock music, Freese was unexpectedly replaced in the Foo Fighters lineup around 2023. The band decided to bring in a new drummer following Taylor Hawkins’ passing. This high-profile example demonstrates how even top-tier musicians can lose their positions without public explanation.
Feder himself brings a unique perspective to this discussion. His varied background in the music industry shaped his viewpoint. Linkinpedia reveals that Feder was raised near Washington, DC, and developed his musical talents from a young age. He eventually studied Jazz Performance at New York University. Before joining Linkin Park on their From Zero World Tour in 2024, Feder served as the live stand-in for founding guitarist Brad Delson. Prior to this role, he played with acts like Enrique Iglesias and Miley Cyrus and pursued solo projects under the name Leonard Friend.
Ultimate Guitar reported that Feder joined Linkin Park during a significant moment for the band. Founding guitarist Brad Delson stepped back from live performances. This transition highlighted how even established bands must adapt and bring in new talent to continue their touring operations.
Feder concluded by noting the limited opportunities available for touring musicians. He emphasized the importance of accepting work from artists who treat their musicians well. His candid remarks serve as a reminder that in the music industry, job security is never guaranteed. Even the most accomplished performers must remain vigilant about their career prospects.
