The band, who are currently on tour in South America, said they were “devastated by the tragic and untimely loss” in a statement on social media. No cause of death has been given.
Hawkins played with Foo Fighters for more than two decades, joining shortly after they finished making their 1997 album ‘The Colour and the Shape’.
“His musical spirit and infectious laughter will live with us forever,” Foo Fighters wrote.
“Our hearts go out to his wife, children, and family, and we ask that their privacy be treated with the utmost respect in this unimaginably difficult time.”
Official statement can be seen below:
— Foo Fighters (@foofighters) March 26, 2022
Foo Fighters were formed in 1994 by Dave Grohl, after his previous group Nirvana disbanded following the suicide of lead singer Kurt Cobain.
Foo Fighters at Slane Castle 2015. Photo – Paulo Goncalves © 2022 via MCD.
While Grohl drummed for Nirvana, he took on lead vocals and guitar in Foo Fighters, and so Hawkins had the daunting task of drumming in a group founded by one of the most celebrated drummers in rock.
Born Feb. 17, 1972, in Fort Worth, Texas, Hawkins was the touring drummer for Alanis Morissette from 1995 to 1997, including concerts supporting her legendary album Jagged Little Pill.
Foo Fighters were scheduled to perform Friday [March 25h] in Bogotá, Colombia. They were also scheduled to perform at the 2022 Grammy Awards on April 3rd.
We’ll bring you more news on this story as it unfolds.
Oran O’Beirne
www.overdrive.ie 2022
