Oliver Taylor Hawkins was an American musician who was best known as the drummer of the rock band Foo Fighters. Joining the band in 1997, Hawkins quickly became one of the group's most recognizable faces. He remained the band’s drummer for over 25 years until his sudden death in 2022. Hawkins recorded eight studio albums with Foo Fighters between 1999 and 2021. Before joining the band, he was a touring drummer for Sass Jordan and Alanis Morissette, as well as the drummer of the progressive experimental band Sylvia.
Hawkins performing with Foo Fighters in 2017
Hawkins singing during a Foo Fighters concert in 2018
Hawkins playing with the Foo Fighters in Austin, Texas, in 2011
Hawkins in 2012
Foo Fighters are an American rock band formed in Seattle in 1994. Founded as a one-man project by former Nirvana drummer Dave Grohl, the lineup now consists of Grohl, Nate Mendel (bass), Chris Shiflett and Pat Smear (guitars), Rami Jaffee (keyboards), and Josh Freese (drums). Drummers William Goldsmith and Taylor Hawkins, along with guitarist Franz Stahl, are former members of the band.
Foo Fighters at Glastonbury Festival 2023. From left: Chris Shiflett, Rami Jaffee, Dave Grohl, Nate Mendel, Josh Freese and Pat Smear.
Dave Grohl (pictured in 2019) founded Foo Fighters after his band Nirvana disbanded in 1994.
Foo Fighters performing at Phoenix Festival in 1996
Long-time drummer Taylor Hawkins (pictured in 2017) joined the band in 1997.