Drummer Swap: Nine Inch Nails & Foo Fighters Make Big Change
Nine Inch Nails and Foo Fighters have exchanged drummers in a surprising move. Josh Freese, previously with Foo Fighters, has rejoined Nine Inch Nails. Meanwhile, Ilan Rubin, formerly of Nine Inch Nails, is reportedly now with Foo Fighters.
Nine Inch Nails announced Josh Freese’s return on social media, sharing a photo with the caption, “Let’s fucking GO” Josh Freese echoed the excitement, reposting with similar enthusiasm. He has a history with Nine Inch Nails, having toured with them from 2005 to 2008 and contributed to their albums Year Zero and The Slip.
Let’s fucking GO pic.twitter.com/8WDVJ0iPEi
— nine inch nails (@nineinchnails) July 30, 2025
On the other hand, Ilan Rubin has reportedly joined Foo Fighters, though no official confirmation has come from the band. Sources say Ilan Rubin informed Nine Inch Nails’ Trent Reznor last week that he had taken a new role with another band, believed to be Foo Fighters. It’s unclear if he’s a full-time member or touring with them.
Nine Inch Nails continue their Peel It Back World Tour on August 6, while Foo Fighters resume performing in October.