A sudden, unexpected injury has sidelined Foo Fighters guitarist Pat Smear, forcing him to miss upcoming performances. The band announced the news with a playful, yet concerned, tone, revealing the cause was far from the typical rockstar mishap.
The incident, described with characteristic bluntness, involved Smear “smashing the s* out of his left foot.” Details remain scarce, but the injury is significant enough to cause multiple fractures, requiring a period of recovery and keeping him off stage.
Smear’s journey to rock prominence began long before the Foo Fighters. He first gained recognition as a rhythm guitarist for Nirvana, a pivotal role during a groundbreaking era in music history. His presence was a vital part of the band’s raw energy and iconic sound.
Following Kurt Cobain’s death and the dissolution of Nirvana, Smear joined Dave Grohl in forming the Foo Fighters in 1994. He was a foundational member, helping to shape the band’s early identity and contribute to their initial success.
Though he stepped away from the Foo Fighters in 1997, his connection to the band remained strong. He returned as a touring guitarist in 2005, eventually being welcomed back as a full-time member in 2010, solidifying his place in the Foo Fighters family.
The band acknowledged the void Smear’s absence will create, expressing their deep affection and wishing him a swift and complete recovery. They emphasized the importance of his health and a full return to the stage when he’s ready.
To ensure the shows go on, the Foo Fighters have enlisted the talents of Jason Falkner, a versatile guitarist known for his work with Beck, St. Vincent, and Jellyfish. Falkner will fill Smear’s shoes for the affected dates, bringing his own unique skills to the performances.
The announcement cleverly referenced a classic scene from the mockumentary *This is Spinal Tap*, where a band member’s demise is attributed to a “bizarre gardening accident.” The nod to the film highlights the often-absurd realities of life on the road and the unpredictable nature of rock and roll.
Currently, Smear is expected to miss shows in Mexico, Los Angeles, and Tasmania, Australia. The band has not yet announced a specific timeline for his return, prioritizing his well-being above all else.
