The Drummer Shuffle: Rock Bands That Have Recently Changed Their Rhythm Section

The rhythm section is the bedrock of any great band, more than you can imagine. A band, in its most general sense, consists of pianists or keyboardists, guitarists, drummers, and, of course, those responsible for the rhythms. That’s what the rhythm section is about. 

That being said, note, too, that when the person behind the kit changes, it’s a shift that reverberates through every aspect of the music. The new drummer might introduce new tempos, bring in different rhythms, or simply prefer gear that shapes the band’s sound differently, like using heavy maple snare drums from DCP or other heavy snare kits for a deeper, more resonant backbeat.

For drummers, this kind of personnel change is a constant source of fascination, offering a glimpse into the internal dynamics of some of rock’s biggest acts. 

This year, the music world has seen a surprising number of these rhythmic shake-ups. Think of this as a restaurant that continuously offers new items on its menu to keep impressing diners, or a flower shop introducing new flower species in its collection.

Here is a breakdown of 11 rock bands that have recently changed their drummers, and the stories behind their new rhythm sections.

1. Guns N' Roses

The notoriously stable lineup of recent years for Guns N' Roses saw a change with the departure of Frank Ferrer. 

After 19 years, Ferrer left the band on amicable terms, with the group thanking him for his "friendship, creativity and sturdy presence." 

His replacement is Isaac Carpenter, a versatile drummer with a background that includes work with Duff McKagan's Loaded and the alt-rock band Awolnation. 

Carpenter's addition signals a new era for the band as they continue their global touring schedule.

2. Foo Fighters

In a dramatic turn of events that had fans and industry insiders talking, Foo Fighters parted ways with drummer Josh Freese after his two-year tenure with the band. 

Freese, a highly respected session drummer who had admirably filled the void left by the late Taylor Hawkins, expressed disappointment but quickly moved on. The band's new rhythm anchor is Ilan Rubin, a young but seasoned veteran best known for his work with Nine Inch Nails. 

This move creates a fascinating crossover, as Rubin brings a different dynamic and a reputation for technical prowess that will undoubtedly shape the Foo Fighters' live performances.

3. Nine Inch Nails

The Foo Fighters' loss was Nine Inch Nails' gain. In a mutually beneficial exchange, Josh Freese, who had toured with Trent Reznor's band from 2005 to 2008, rejoined the group. 

This move brought the drummer's career full circle, and the band enthusiastically welcomed his return. The swap highlights the tight-knit world of professional musicians and how a change in one legendary band can trigger a ripple effect across the industry.

4. The Who 

Veteran drummer Zak Starkey, son of Ringo Starr and a long-time touring member of The Who, had a particularly tumultuous exit. 

After being dismissed and then reinstated within a week due to "communication issues," 

Starkey was ultimately let go for good. The Who, who are in the midst of what they have announced as their final shows, quickly recruited Scott Devours, the drummer from Roger Daltrey's solo band, to take over the crucial role. 

The public nature of this split was a stark reminder of the often-volatile relationships that can simmer beneath the surface of even the most iconic bands.

5. Iron Maiden 

The metal legends of Iron Maiden faced a planned transition with the retirement of longtime drummer Nicko McBrain. 

Citing health challenges from a stroke he suffered in 2023, McBrain announced he was stepping back from touring. 

The band's new drummer is Simon Dawson, who had been playing with bassist Steve Harris' other band, British Lion. 

Dawson's seamless transition, having already been part of the Maiden family, showcases a well-executed and respectful change of guard, allowing the band's legacy to continue uninterrupted on the world stage.

6. Oasis 

The highly anticipated reunion of the Gallagher brothers brought with it a new face behind the drum kit. 

Joey Waronker, a highly respected session drummer whose credits include Beck, R.E.M., and Roger Waters, was announced as the new man for the job. Waronker's versatility and technical skill were likely key factors in his selection, as he’s tasked with keeping the beat for one of the most iconic and influential British rock bands of all time. 

His pedigree makes him an ideal choice to handle both the band’s legacy material and any potential new tracks they might create.

7. Primus 

Primus made headlines with their unorthodox search for a new drummer following the abrupt departure of Tim “Herb” Alexander. 

Rather than a quiet hiring process, Les Claypool and Larry “Ler” LaLonde hosted an open audition to find their new rhythm keeper. The spot was ultimately awarded to John “Hoffer” Hoffman, a drummer from the Louisiana band Dirtfoot. 

The band's new drummer has already made his live debut, and the group has indicated that a new album with Hoffman is a strong possibility, showing their commitment to a new creative direction.

8. Godsmack

In a surprise move, drummer Shannon Larkin and guitarist Tony Rombola both announced they had quit Godsmack, stating they "didn't want to tour anymore." 

The band praised the longtime members while quickly launching a European tour with fill-in drummer Will Hunt from Evanescence. 

This change highlights the immense personal and professional pressures that come with a demanding touring schedule, even for successful bands.

9. Bob Dylan 

Bob Dylan’s long-running Rough and Rowdy Ways tour saw a shake-up with the replacement of veteran session drummer Jim Keltner. 

Taking over the drumming duties is Anton Fig, a prolific drummer who has an impressive list of credits, including work on Dylan's albums from the 80s, as well as with artists like Kiss and Joe Bonamassa. 

Fig's extensive experience and deep understanding of a wide range of musical styles make him a perfect fit for Dylan’s ever-evolving sound.

10. The New Pornographers 

The Canadian indie rockers of The New Pornographers were forced into an immediate and challenging decision. 

After drummer Joe Seiders was arrested on serious charges, the band swiftly severed all ties with him. Their statement expressed shock and devastation, and they are now in the process of finding a replacement for a key role that had been stable since 2014.

11. Black Flag 

Lastly, there’s Black Flag. Founding guitarist Greg Ginn has once again changed the lineup of Black Flag, this time debuting a group of musicians who were not even born when the band first started. 

The new drummer, Bryce Weston, is part of this fresh-faced lineup, which a press release promises will bring "renewed creative energy" to the legendary punk band. It's a bold move that shows Ginn's commitment to the band's signature sound while also embracing new talent.

Rock bands come and go. What was popular a decade ago may be gone today. Yet, this just cannot simply happen. Fans would raise their uproar if a band disappears from the spotlight.

Yet, fans are always on the lookout for something new, so rock bands should continually introduce new things, whether this be new music or new tunes. The latter is where changes in the rhythm section enter the scene.

The sheer number of high-profile drummer changes in 2025 is a testament to the dynamic and often unpredictable nature of the music industry. These shifts are far more than just a matter of swapping out personnel. They represent a fundamental change in a band's creative core. 

For musicians, these stories offer valuable lessons about the fragility of band dynamics, the importance of creative compatibility, and the endless pursuit of the right rhythmic voice. 

The drummers who have stepped into these roles face the monumental challenge of honoring a band's legacy while also injecting their distinct personality into the music.