Goodbye, Taylor Hawkins: Musicians react to rock drummer’s death

Taylor Hawkins was the drummer for American rock band Foo Fighters. The group was formed in 1994 by former Nirvana drummer Dave Grohl, and started out as a one-man project. Since then, the group has amassed numerous awards including 12 Grammys (they won “Best Rock Album” four times). In 2021, they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, during their first year of eligibility.It shocked the entire world when their drummer, Taylor Hawkins, who had been with the band since 1997, passed away on March 25 while on tour in South America. He was 50.It was reported that the drummer was suffering from chest pain in his hotel room. He was declared dead at the scene. A preliminary urine toxicology test done the following day revealed 10 substances in his system present at the time of death which included opioids, benzodiazepines and tricyclic antidepressants, among others.Musicians reacted to the passing of Hawkins. Here are some of the notable ones posted on their social media accounts:“I don’t have the words. Sad to write this or to never see you again. I’ll never forget Laguna Beach days when I was a trash man playing in a punk rock band and you were playing with Alanis [Morissette]. You’d come watch me play in dive bars and be like, ‘Kid, you’re a star.’ And I thought you were crazy but you gave me so much hope and determination. Years later, we toured together with Blink and Foo’s in Australia and I have the best memories of smoking cigarettes in the restroom of flights we were on together and watching your set every night. To say I’ll miss you my friend isn’t enough. Till the next time we talk drums and smoke in the boys room, Rest In Peace.” – Travis Barker, Blink 182 drummer“Shocked and saddened to hear of the passing of Taylor Hawkins. He was a really great guy, drummer and family man. Was always great to see him! Was looking forward to seeing him and everyone in Daytona. Truly saddened. My deepest condolences to his family, the Foo Fighters and their fans.” – Axl Rose, Guns N’ Roses vocalist“God bless you, Taylor Hawkins. I loved your spirit and your unstoppable rock power. Rest In Peace, my friend.” – Tom Morello, Rage Against the Machine guitarist“No. It cannot be. Heartbroken. Taylor, you were family to us. Our friend, our brother, our beloved child. Bless you. We will miss you so bad.” – Brian May, Queen guitarist“Your phone call a week ago touched and inspired me and I will always be appreciative for you championing our community as in your parting words, ‘Drummers stick together!’ Damn right, brother. Except now the community is lesser without you. Rest In Peace,” Lars Ulrich, Metallica drummerFoo Fighters cancelled all of its remaining tour dates and released the following statement on social media:“It is with great sadness that Foo Fighters confirm the cancellation of all upcoming tour dates in light of the staggering loss of our brother Taylor Hawkins. We’re sorry for and share in the disappointment that we won’t be seeing one another as planned. Instead, let’s take this time to grieve, to heal, to pull our loved ones close, and to appreciate all the music and memories we’ve made together. With Love, Foo Fighters.”