Hawkins had been a drummer for the band for more than two decades
Taylor Hawkins was a humorous, jovial human being and a ferocious drummer for rock band Foo Fighters. In a statement released by his band members, it was revealed that the drummer has died, at the age of 50. The message was posted on social media, and the band spoke about how devastated they are by the loss. But they added that his musical spirit and infectious laughter will forever live on through all of us. The band was scheduled to perform at Festival Estéreo Picnic in Bogotá, Colombia when the tragedy struck. No cause of death was provided.
His Life
Hawkins was born in Fort Worth, Texas, and later relocated to Laguna Beach, California. He earned recognition by being the touring drummer for Alanis Morissette during their Jagged Little Pill days. He played for their hit singles ‘You Oughta Know’ and ‘You Learn.’
Hawkins joined Foo Fighters in 1997 when their original drummer William Goldsmith exited. This forced frontman Dave Grohl to handle drumming for a short while before Hawkins stepped in. The two become inseperable, with Grohl calling Hawkins his best friend and partner in crime in his autobiography. We haven’t yet heard Dave’s tribute.
Tributes for Taylor Hawkins
Rage Against the Machine’s Tom Morello was one of the first to reach out, saying he loved Hawkins’ spirit and unstoppable rock power. He also shared a picture of himself and Hawkins with Perry Farrell of Jane’s Addiction. Miley Cyrus, a strong Foo Fighters fan also paid tribute, saying, “Rest In Peace my friend.” She added that her upcoming concert will be dedicated to him. Finneas, Slash, Mike Portnoy, Ozzy Osbourne, and producer Steve Albini were some others who shared tributes.
May he rest in peace.