Taylor Hawkins grew up in Laguna Beach, California in the ‘70s and ‘80s, heavily influenced by the rock music of the era. Music was, and still is, all-consuming for him. The riches and fame that came with success were never important, and he’s always felt like a fish out of water in the celebrity world. As the drummer for Foo Fighters he’s brought his intensity and classic rock influence to the band’s distinct sound.

Hawkins got his start at Laguna Beach High School, where he was less interested in class than he was in playing drums. He played locally after high school before he was hired by Alanis Morissette in the ‘90s, at the peak of her fame. Drumming for Morissette launched Hawkins’ career, and he appeared in several of her music videos as well as her tour.

While he was a successful drummer, it was truly through luck and confidence that he had the opportunity to audition for Foo Fighters. The band had started out as a solo project of Nirvana’s Dave Grohl, but Grohl changed direction soon after completing work on his first album. He decided to develop Foo Fighters into a full band in 1995, and initially brought on William Goldsmith of Sunny Day Real Estate for drums. Grohl is a perfectionist, and he grew unhappy with Goldsmith’s performance while working on their second album. He ended up re-recording Goldsmith’s drumming parts himself, and started searching for the perfect replacement.

Hawkins and Grohl were introduced by Hawkins’ cousin, who had spent several weeks on a camping trip with Grohl. Grohl sought Hawkins’ advice about a replacement for Goldsmith, and Hawkins didn’t hesitate to suggest himself. Grohl was impressed with his playing and offered him the spot.

The collaborative nature of Grohl and Hawkins’ relationship has been the backbone of Foo Fighters. Grohl is one of the best drummers alive, and he’s never been able to resist giving Hawkins feedback. The two have tremendous respect for each other as musicians, and their back and forth relationship has pushed both to make better music.

Beyond Foo Fighters Hawkins has worked on several solo projects. Foo Fighters are heavily influenced by classic rock, but his work outside the band has been the perfect opportunity to further embrace his love of musicians like Queen, Fleetwood Mac, and Genesis. His passion for their music led him to start a covers band, Chevy Metal, that he still plays with when not on tour. Additionally, he has been a part of countless side projects including work with the Beach Boys, Brian May of Queen, and Slash.

In 2014, while remaining with Foo Fighters, Hawkins started his band The Birds of Satan. Fame has done little to change him – he still has the truck he drove in high school. He lives within walking distance of where he grew up. His disinterest in material things is shared with Dave Grohl, and their down-to-earth mentality has been essential in keeping Foo Fighters going for over 20 years.

Hawkins doesn’t take breaks. When Foo Fighters aren’t working on music, he’s jamming with Chevy Metal at small festivals, bars, and even local restaurants. He’ll spend hours on YouTube, obsessing over improving Foo Fighters’ live performances. Hawkins is quick to say Dave Grohl is the better drummer, but it’s his unique energy and attention to detail that has helped make Foo Fighters the rock legends they are today.