Foo Fighters Announce Emotional New Covers Album Honoring Late Drummer Taylor Hawkins
The Foo Fighters have officially confirmed details of a deeply personal and emotional new covers album, recorded as a heartfelt tribute to their late drummer, Taylor Hawkins. The record, titled “Echoes for Taylor,” is set for release in early 2026 and features reimagined versions of Hawkins’ favorite songs — a sonic love letter from the band to the man who was their heartbeat for over two decades.
Hawkins passed away on March 22, 2022, at the age of 50, leaving an enormous void not only within the Foo Fighters but also across the rock community worldwide. Known for his boundless energy, thunderous drumming, and magnetic charisma, Hawkins was more than just a bandmate — he was family. His tragic death sent shockwaves through the music world, prompting an outpouring of love, grief, and remembrance from fans and fellow musicians alike.
Following his passing, Hawkins was laid to rest after a private memorial service, fulfilling one of his personal wishes outlined in his will. Those close to him described the ceremony as intimate, joyful, and deeply moving — a celebration of the life of a man who lived every beat, every note, and every moment to its fullest.
Now, nearly four years later, the Foo Fighters are channeling their grief, admiration, and love into something profoundly special. “Echoes for Taylor” will feature 12 cover songs that meant the most to Hawkins throughout his life — tracks from Queen, David Bowie, Rush, Led Zeppelin, and The Police, among others. Each song was chosen for its connection to Hawkins’ musical journey and his irrepressible spirit.
Frontman Dave Grohl spoke about the project in a recent statement:
“Taylor loved music more than anyone I’ve ever known. These songs were the ones that made him want to play, to dream, to be larger than life. We wanted to honor him in the only way we know how — through music. Every take, every note on this album carries a bit of him.”
Grohl, who shared one of the most powerful friendships in modern rock with Hawkins, described the recording process as “cathartic, raw, and beautiful.” He revealed that many of the vocal takes were done in single sessions — emotional performances where the band members could “feel Taylor in the room.”
According to producer Greg Kurstin, who also worked on the band’s 2023 album But Here We Are, the sessions were “intense but healing.”
“There were tears, laughter, and long silences. But above all, there was love — a lot of love for Taylor,” Kurstin said. “The band wasn’t just recreating songs. They were reliving moments they shared with him.”
“Echoes for Taylor” will also include guest appearances from several of Hawkins’ closest friends and collaborators, including Brian May, Chad Smith, and Josh Homme, who each contribute to select tracks. One particularly emotional highlight is reported to be a rendition of Queen’s “Somebody to Love”, a song Hawkins performed countless times live as the band’s show-stopping vocalist.
The album closes with a stripped-down version of Foo Fighters’ “Times Like These”, recorded live in studio with only acoustic instruments — a fitting reminder of the fragility and resilience that defines the band’s journey since losing Hawkins.
In addition to the album, Foo Fighters have also announced a documentary companion film, directed by Thurston Moore, chronicling the making of the record and the memories it stirred. The film will feature unseen footage of Hawkins in rehearsal, studio sessions, and home videos, providing fans with a closer look at the man behind the drums.
Fans have already taken to social media to express their anticipation and emotion over the project. One fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter), “I’m not ready for this. Taylor’s energy is eternal, and this album will be his final encore.”
As the Foo Fighters continue to honor their late brother through music, “Echoes for Taylor” stands as more than just a covers record — it’s a testament to friendship, legacy, and the healing power of rock ‘n’ roll.
In Grohl’s words:
“Taylor’s laughter still echoes in every room we play in. This album is our way of making sure those echoes never fade.”
“Echoes for Taylor” will be available on vinyl, CD, and all streaming platforms in March 2026, marking exactly four years since Hawkins’ passing — a poignant reminder that even though he’s gone, his rhythm plays on forever.
