After bringing us unforgettable rock anthems and epic live shows for nearly three decades, it’s almost possible to forget for a moment that he was also the mighty drummer for one of the most ground-breaking bands in rock history – Nirvana. And yet there’s even more to his story. Dave has produced award-winning records and music videos, directed major documentary films, and collaborated with countless legendary musicians, from Sir Paul McCartney to David Bowie to Norah Jones. His passion and endless curiosity are deeply embedded in every project he undertakes. Like Buddy Holly, Dave is most at ease when he’s in the studio, creating and refining new sounds.

Similarly, Dave’s professional music career began in his teens. Dave joined a band in Washington, D.C., dropping out of high school to play drums on their nationwide tour. From that auspicious start, he connected with artists across the country, which eventually led to him joining Nirvana. Dave’s intense and powerful drumming propelled the band forward and served as the heartbeat to Kurt Cobain’s brilliant lyrics, and their work inspired an entire generation of fans and opened the door to numerous artists.

After Nirvana, Dave quickly became a sought-after collaborator, receiving an attractive offer from Tom Petty to join the Heartbreakers. He auditioned by playing drums for the band on their nationally televised appearance on Saturday Night Live. After being offered the job, Dave declined so he could focus on his own solo material, resulting in the Foo Fighters’ celebrated debut album. Dave played nearly every  instrument on the record, and after releasing it, he assembled a first-class band to bring his vision to life and take the songs on the road. This kick-started decades of wildly successful Foo Fighters tours, and massive songs like ‘Everlong’, ‘Learn to Fly’ and ‘Times Like These’. Outside the band, Grohl produced other artists, collaborated on numerous recordings, founded the supergroup Them Crooked Vultures with John Paul Jones, and produced, directed and starred in award-winning music documentaries, including Sound City and Sonic Highways.

Along the way, Dave has collected many accolades, including music’s highest honour – induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame – first with Nirvana in 2014 and later with the Foo Fighters in 2021. With this rare achievement, he joins an elite group of artists who have been inducted more than once, including icons Tina Turner, Neil Young, Stevie Nicks and Paul McCartney. As one of the most important and influential musicians of his generation, Dave Grohl fits right in with this distinguished group.

Greg Harris (President, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum)