Foo Fighters remain an influential institution 28 years after Nirvana’s disbandment, thanks to frontman Dave Grohl’s animated puppet persona that compliments their high-fretted guitar attacks; when rock music needs public facelifting – such as an all-star Prince tribute at the Grammys or fundraising for musicians affected by coronavirus – these bands often provide it.
Origins
As Nirvana drummer Dave Grohl began recording demos for his new band in 1998, he wanted to keep their formation secret. To do this, he gave their recordings the name Foo Fighters as an allusion to various aerial phenomena seen by Allied pilots during World War II that became commonly referred to as Kraut fireballs.
Foo fighters were not just innocent-sounding objects – their mysterious movements often coincided with aircraft and ships from both sides, prompting extensive military inquiries into them in both Europe and Asia. Intelligence teams initially suspected these enigmatic phenomena were weapons belonging to opposing sides that had yet to be revealed by either of their opposing commanders.
Foo Fighters became one of the most beloved rock bands of all time, earning 15 Grammy awards and becoming one of the most beloved rock acts ever with songs like Learn to Fly. Utilizing their popularity, Foo Fighters also supported several charities like Alive & Well and former band member Pat Smear’s documentary film dispelling myths surrounding HIV and AIDS.
Members
The band features lead singer Dave Grohl, drummer Taylor Hawkins, rhythm guitarist Pat Smear and bassist Nate Mendel. Each member brings extensive rock music experience – performing or recording with other bands – into its ranks.
The Foo Fighters are an award-winning band who have been making waves for many years with their musical albums and collaborative efforts with other artists, producing work across many genres that is immensely popular with listeners worldwide.
Dave Grohl is a Grammy award winning drummer who was previously part of Nirvana. Since their dissolution he has taken part in numerous projects; one notable collaboration being his collaboration with PJ Harvey. Grohl has also performed drums for acts such as Queen, QOTSA, Them Crooked Vultures and Nine Inch Nails.
Albums
Foo Fighters established themselves on a foundation of groundbreaking albums that have since become cornerstones of rock. From Everlong to Enough Space or Dave on Monkey Wrench’s final bridge ‘One Last Thing Before I Quit’ – each record became essential listening for fans of the band.
Released shortly after Kurt Cobain’s tragic death, this album by an emerging band which would later become one of the most enduring in modern music is haunting and triumphant all at the same time. Producer Butch Norton challenged them relentlessly until capturing just the right feeling – his devotion paid off with three top 10 hits including an iconic anthem for their entire band.
At times, you can detect subtlety amongst this album‘s more introspective moments: country twang of “Generator” signals future acoustic experiments while “Aurora” hinted towards future releases that might expand upon more chiller territory.
Tours
Foo Fighters have taken numerous global tours, providing high-energy and exciting performances showcasing all that rock music has to offer. Guitar riffs, thunderous drums and Grohl’s powerful vocals combine into an incredible sound synonymous with this band.
Following Taylor Hawkins’ passing, Foo Fighters held several emotional tribute concerts that brought special guests like Pink and Liam Gallagher.
Foo Fighters recently unveiled plans for a North American stadium tour known as Their Everything or Nothing at All Tour that will start in New York City on July 17 and wrap up in Seattle on August 18. LD Dan Hadley created a lighting rig specifically tailored for these shows using Martin MAC Ultra Performance and Aura Wash fixtures from Martin.