The members of Foo Fighters acknowledged that one of the key reasons behind the band’s success is Dave Grohl’s “benign dictatorship,” with guitarist Chris Shiflett telling Rolling Stone:
“This band works because it’s not a democracy. People can read into that what they want – but it’s a big reason why the band hasn’t broken up.”
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Drummer Taylor Hawkins chimed in:
“It’s a benign dictatorship. I’ve learned to keep my mouth shut until Dave’s really looking for input.”
However, guitarist Pat Smear also pointed out that the band shares all publishing revenue equally, sayinig:
“I think Dave learned that this is the way to keep a band happy and feeling like a band. He’s naturally a generous person – but he also gets that there’s an upside.”
Hawkins added:
“He was a fucking drummer, man! I think because he was in that back seat, he knows how we’d feel if we were treated badly.”
And finally, Mr. Grohl shared his take on the matter, saying:
“I mean, I know at the end of the day it’s my name at the bottom of the check. But we all hold different responsibilities that keep the thing fucking going.”
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Looking back at everything that happened over the years, which includes ending up in a coma for two weeks after overdosing on heroin back in 2001, Hawkins said:
“We went through a lot of crazy periods with our band early on. But since then, it’s been pretty smooth sailing.
“I’m not saying that I can’t piss Dave off, or Dave can’t bum me out – Dave can hurt my feelings more than anyone else in the world. But there’s not an evil, out-to-get-you vibe.
“It’s more sibling-like.”