by Dave Grohl made headlines during the Foo Fighters’ San Luis Obispo show. He officially announced the band’s new drummer while sharing a candid moment about his return to performing. This was captured in footage shared by Alt 98.7 FM.
The announcement focused on formally introducing Ilan Rubin as the Foo Fighters’ new drummer. Grohl also opened up about the challenges of returning to the stage after an extended break.
“Do I finally get to say who are f*cking new drummer is? Everybody else has said it,” Grohl said. “I finally get the opportunity to say, ladies and gentlemen, would you please welcome the most badass motherf*cker, Ilan Rubin is on the drums of the Foo Fighters. It’s official.”
The frontman then revealed the personal toll of his return to performing after a year-long hiatus. “And I’m only making this much conversation because I haven’t played in a year,” he continued. “And I’m already exhausted.”
This marks Grohl’s first official confirmation of Rubin as the band’s drummer. The announcement ended speculation that had been circulating among fans and media outlets.
Grohl’s candid admission about exhaustion represents a rare moment of vulnerability from a musician who has long cultivated an image as rock’s most approachable figure. His openness about the challenges of returning to performance comes at a particularly complex time for the veteran rocker.
Skepchick reported that Grohl has long been seen as a figure known for his upbeat public persona, often dubbed “the nicest guy in rock.” This makes his recent candid admission about exhaustion and personal challenges particularly notable. This reputation has made him one of the most beloved figures in alternative rock. Fans and fellow musicians consistently praise his down-to-earth approach to fame.
The timing of his return to the stage coincides with broader shifts in rock culture. LA Magazine noted that rock musicians of his generation are navigating a complex midlife phase. The traditional “sex, drugs, and rock n’ roll” lifestyle is increasingly seen as outdated or problematic. This cultural shift has forced many veteran rockers to reassess their approach to both their personal lives and their public personas.
Grohl’s honest acknowledgment of feeling “exhausted” after just returning to the stage reflects the physical and emotional demands that come with decades of high-energy performances. The confession suggests that even rock’s most resilient figures are not immune to the toll that constant touring and performing can take on both body and mind.
The San Luis Obispo show represents not just the official introduction of Rubin as the band’s new drummer. It also marks a moment of transition for Grohl himself as he navigates his return to live performance while managing the personal challenges that come with his position as one of rock’s most visible frontmen.
