News Summary
Foo Fighters have announced plans for a series of intimate live performances following a surprise concert at Observatory OC, where frontman Dave Grohl hinted at more small gigs ahead. Featuring their new drummer Ilan Rubin, the band is eager to connect with fans in unique venues, reminiscing about their history with personal performances. Fans can look forward to upcoming shows across California and additional concerts in Indonesia, Japan, Singapore, and Mexico. With recent successes, including a new album and single, the band embraces their new era while honoring their legacy.
Santa Ana – Foo Fighters have announced a series of intimate live shows, following a surprise performance at the Observatory OC venue, where frontman Dave Grohl hinted at plans for “little gigs” in the near future. The concert, which attracted a crowd of approximately 1,700 fans, featured tickets sold for a modest $30. Grohl expressed that these smaller performances mark an exciting new phase for the band.
This recent show was particularly significant as it was the first since the band’s lineup change, with Ilan Rubin officially joining as the new drummer after Josh Freese’s departure. Grohl praised Rubin, asserting that he is “the most badass motherfucker,” emphasizing the unique nature of performances in smaller venues compared to larger stadiums.
The band has enjoyed the rush of such intimate club gigs, with Grohl acknowledging the shared experience between the band and fans. This sentiment was evident when the band had recently played at the Fremont Theater in San Luis Obispo and again at the Observatory OC, indicating a growing trend toward more personal performances.
Reflecting on their history, the Foo Fighters are particularly eager about upcoming shows in Los Angeles, recalling a memorable performance at the now-closed Spaceland in 2011 that catered to just around 300 attendees. The nostalgic excitement surrounding these events is palpable among fans, as they await the chance to see their favorite band up close again.
In addition to the intimate shows in California, the Foo Fighters have confirmed plans for a string of concerts across Indonesia, Japan, Singapore, and Mexico over the following months. As the band’s fanbase remains steadfast, their recent milestones are notable, including the release of their latest album, “But Here We Are,” in 2023, and the promotion of their new single, “Today’s Song,” earlier this month, which aligns with their ongoing 30th-anniversary celebrations.
Amidst their recent successes and changes, Grohl has made it clear that the band is moving forward while honoring the legacy of past members. The impact of late drummer Taylor Hawkins continues to resonate within their music, as Grohl has praised both Hawkins and former members for their contributions to the band’s journey.
Prior to 2024, the Foo Fighters took a hiatus from live performances, marking a significant period in the band’s history. They resumed touring after a year-long break, recently announcing additional tour dates and upcoming concerts. However, in December 2024, the band canceled some European dates due to Grohl’s personal circumstances, including the recent addition of his new baby daughter.
As the band navigates these changes, they have updated their social media profiles and brand image to reflect the addition of Rubin to the lineup. The restructured band played a nostalgic set during their surprise concert, featuring fan-favorite tracks like “Everlong,” “Walk,” and “My Hero,” reaffirming their place in the hearts of rock enthusiasts.
The outpouring of enthusiasm for the Foo Fighters’ return to more intimate settings marks a significant chapter for the band, as they prepare to embrace their legacy while also stepping confidently into a new era with their updated lineup and plans for future performances.
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- Grimy Goods
- NME
- Rock Cellar Magazine
- The Guardian
- Charlotte Observer
- Wikipedia: Foo Fighters
- Google Search: Foo Fighters news
- Google Scholar: Foo Fighters
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Foo Fighters
- Google News: Foo Fighters
Author: STAFF HERE COSTA MESA WRITER
COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER The COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECostaMesa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Costa Mesa, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the OC Fair, Concerts in the Park, and Fish Fry. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce and Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Orange Coast, plus leading businesses in retail, fashion, and technology that power the local economy such as Vans, Experian, and South Coast Plaza. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, HERESanDiego.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
