Primus Drummer Reveals The Truth About His Shocking Departure

[@scottlaboch4534]

Wishing Herb the best on his life moving forward. His health has to be priority #1.

[@BidensTaint]

Yeah, I toured for years. It’s not the easiest thing after a while 😂

[@sole__doubt]

It sounds to me like hes suffering from depression. Its one of the most common and least understood mental conditions and sadly many have to fight it for their entire life.

[@TheKitchenerLeslie]

Claypool probably bullied him into getting the vax

[@morgellon7877]

@@sole__doubt That's what I was thinking. The words he chose, that he "lost the passion for playing," appear to convey depression, unfortunately.

[@sole__doubt]

@@morgellon7877 Exactly.

[@SolamenteVees]

How can you not respect Herb's wishes. He's clearly not being selfish or hiding the reasons why he left Primus. Respect.

[@FaithFallRepentGraceRepeat]

Not being selfish? Leaving your bandmates hanging, wondering what happened isn’t exactly giving respect.

[@itsjustlyle]

He was hiding it though. He sent them an email instead of talking to them about it. I respect his reasons - they're the best reasons - but there's a way to do this, and the way he went about it wasn't with much integrity.

[@flingonber]

@@itsjustlyle Thing is, though, none of us really know the whole story. It's pretty clear that the "people and situations that do not support my well-being" includes the band, and he also talks about being deeply unhappy for the past YEAR on tour with them. This is clearly something that was ongoing for a considerable amount of time; so did he send them an email instead of talking about it, or did he send them an email because talking about it with them didn't get him anywhere? Even if he didn't talk to them, did his friends that he was spending virtually all of his time with on tour somehow not notice that he was struggling? Or did they notice and just not care?

[@DeltaKT]

@@flingonber Ba-boom.

[@pjcouture9944]

Maybe it was the email! It’s like breaking up with someone via text message. But yea, no sense doing something just to please people!!

[@georgemartin9139]

Took the train into the city in early 90s, young skateboard kids with no money, no tickets. Showed up at club early day to see where it was, primus comes strolling down sidewalk. Some guy hands Les a green custom built bass, Les starts banging on it right there. We talk to Herb about how we don’t have tix, he tells us if we can get to Boston he’ll put us on the guest list, we spent most of what we had to get there. Great dude, we ended up getting in, jumped up on stage, went right in front of drums and yelled, we’re in! Then jumped into crowd. One of the greatest shows I’ve ever seen, one of the greatest human beings, thank you Herb, you gave a poor kid hope, much love brother

[@hunterwilk]

That's a dope story, thanks.

[@ChrisC-vk4jf]

That's awesome!

[@richymoore]

Herb has given the world of music some of the greatest drumming ever performed and recorded, and along with his bandmates some of the weirdest, most unique rock n roll ever made. It’s sad to see him step down but he’s done a great shift.

[@firmamentbubbleboyaskstobe7076]

Well said 👍

[@krock123]

This is a 60 year old man. He's earned the right to say 'nah I'm not doing it anymore' without having to justify his decision.

[@jasonallthatremains1206]

people sometimes forget that musicians can feel age physically and mentally. Drummers don't have an easy job.

[@danielmantell3084]

He really took, 'This could have been an email" to heart. Respect.

[@jimicottrell6411]

As a 58 yo Drummer, I can relate to the pain. Thank you Herb ! Thank you for the shows and the records. No need to hurry to see Neil again!

[@lallijohnslallijohns5124]

Primus drummer is also leaving As i lay dying i heard.

[@keithwoodcrest]

And joining puddle of mud

[@Lilmickcrocodiledundee0001]

😂😂

[@JJChannelName]

I’m also here to announce that I’m leaving AILD as well

[@mattjones596]

😂😂😂

[@AlanSmith-ei5vz]

​@@keithwoodcrestYou guys are killing me 😂😂😂😂😂

[@Lilmickcrocodiledundee0001]

Wish him the best, health, life, family. Thank you

[@Arthur-ke9vz]

My body hurts constantly! I’m a 58 yr old touring drummer for 33+ years and playing hard and fast has absolutely destroyed my body. My knees, sciatica, rotator cuffs, carpal tunnel, massive hearing loss, not to mention the hundreds or thousands of holidays, weddings, birthdays etc I missed.

[@justinkendell301]

Hell yeah brother

[@ronnieo.6647]

🤘🏽🤘🏽🤘🏽

[@marramamberta321]

But you did something you liked, and there're many people who wished they lived the experiences you had. 👍

[@Mikishots]

Not about you, pal.

[@thedude7726]

Shit man , I drummed in a band for 5 years and got burnt out. Haven't played in 10 years and I still have hip and knee pain from years of slamming pedals

[@Adam_The_Archivist]

Have to respect the man’s honesty and his devotion to his family! BEST OF LUCK HERB! You will be greatly missed on the music scene!

[@thedogman2576]

Not only is he an amazing drummer with a unique style, i found his tone very refreshing in a world of "knock off" drummers.

[@hopehope8974]

Dude has lived thru multiple heart attacks. He can afford to retire with our eternal gratitude and best wishes. Live long and live well Herb.

[@ScarysReviews]

when he first left the band after Tales from the punchbowl, he felt there wasn't anymore creativity or he couldn't think of anything. Came back after Antipop (last with Brian the Brain ) and then there was the spot with Jay Lane, then Tim returned again, now gone. That's crazy. we can only thank him for the memories and many, many great beats

[@danielhicks4826]

He was right in the end nothing they have done since 2002 or even 1999 let alone 1996 has been close to their original 9 albums.

[@johnwayneasgenghiskhan4699]

BIG respect for Herb right there. You can't get anymore genuine or sincere than that. What an amazing dude. Thank you for all you've done for the world throughout the decades. Much love.

[@brutesquadbbq2268]

I’ve gotta wonder if what happened with Neil Peart didn’t play into this decision. Neil wanted to retire for so long and then after he finally did he only got a few years to live his life, much of which was spent fighting cancer. Not saying it would be a big part, but certainly A part. The Rush guys and Primus guys are close.

[@chrisnorman2879]

100% agree. I believe after seeing what happened to Neil and having 2 heart attacks made this a very easy decision. All the best and thank you for the gift of your music Tim!

[@boogaethje]

Certainly a consideration I’d imagine. Pushing 60 and been on the road for the last 30 years. Yeah man. Time for some personal investment.

[@danielhenderson3753]

Peart was in chronic pain for a long time. Tendonosis, I believe. He said he rode motorcycle so much because it was so physically stimulating that it allowed him to ignore the pain.

[@DrJ-hx7wv]

I thought the same thing. I hope he can heal.

[@LerVal-x1h]

Neil went through some really hard moments. Lost his daughter and wife. Rode his motorcycle for 2 years finding......what ever he needed to heal. Neil was completely in a different world . The guy was smart. Rush is one of those bands that you just never heard anything negative about the members. And all the interviews they seem like really humble guys and I just love there vibe. Primus has a similar vibe. Have yiu ever heard anything bad about Leslie,Ler, or herb. Not me. Not like van Halen or these other big bands. Class acts .

[@BIGFESH]

3:20 is the reason yall are here. your welcome.

[@AUXdrone]

Tim comprises the best of the Primus lineup. Just isn’t quite Primus without him. Ah well. Happy trails Herb, Herb the ginseng drummer.

[@peanutygoodness]

Herb, Les, and Ler deserve as much respect as individuals as they do as a band for all of the intense moments of explosive wtfery that always comes with any reaction to the music they have produced over the years. I moved to the Bay Area to be closer to their music and found a whole world of extended freaks and talented creative types that formed some lasting relationships and exposed me to music and art that I would have possibly never been a part of had I not been so enthralled when I first heard Frizzle Fry - I couldn’t understand what I was hearing. I immediately went and found a cassette of the LP at Tower Records and it did not leave my auto reverse deck unless it was being transferred from car to home.

[@ShannonAER]

Very proud of him and the rest of the guys will be ok. Stay positive! Everything is going well! Loud love to him and the band! And to u! Proud of u, ur doing great on Rockfeed! Love it!

[@hippydippy]

Well Spoken... Bless his heart.

[@livery9]

Amazing drummer. He’s given us so much to enjoy in the recording realm alone that will be available to listen to again and again and again…respect!

[@jimb2577]

Herb is a cool guy and deserves to live the life he wants. I met him a Larry in the parking lot of Rockers in Phx. when Primus was opening for 24 7 Spys on the Frizzle Fry tour. They were so friendly and made a lasting impression.

[@Infernoblade1010]

That's wild, but best wishes to him and his family. I'm sure Primus will be fine.

[@zackmano]

I lost my mother last March and took a hiatus from my band, after decades of performing live in several bands. Sometimes you really do need time away from performing or even need to retire. I saw it a lot differently before I faced real challenges. I can't even imagine how I'd handle it if my band was on the level of Primus, but I definitely have experienced enough to not judge anyone. 🙏🏼💙🤘🏼

[@Blackntosh]

You Shredded it Herb! Enjoy your life. Thanks for all the inspiration. Cheers!

[@MrDingus64]

All the best to Tim. One of the most unique players in rock; incredible musician 👏

[@guitfidle]

As someone who has had a lot of health issues the last few years, I totally get it. I’m currently on medical leave from work recovering from hip surgery.

[@tysonbeighss]

I shattered my knee years ago and it was a long and difficult recovery, but did it. Whatever happened to you, hopefully your recovery goes well and quickly! Take care!

[@CopiumPoppies]

I am so glad both times I saw Primus live was with Tim Alexander/the OG lineup. Even got to meet Tim the first time I saw them (and Les on a different occasion at a Claypool Lennon Delirium show, so I have met two thirds of Primus' original lineup! lol). He seemed like a nice guy. He lit up a little when I asked him if he was going to be doing anything with Puscifer again because at that point he had worked with them. He gave a non-answer, but genuinely seemed appreciative someone asked him about a project he worked with that wasn't Primus.

[@cpdrumming]

Good for him! He was a huge influence for me as a young drummer. Take care Tim and if you ever read this I hope you enjoy the rest of your life.

[@rubaidaallen2764]

This is so sad. It’s always hard to accept when a beloved member of one of your favorite bands departs. I saw Primus this past summer in Sessanta and it was so awesome. All the best ❤️❤️

[@SeanSilas_IronWrath_GTR]

The explanation is the best I have heard from a musician! Mental Health and family is #1! Be blessed in your future Herb! 🥁

[@RichardMatte-r7e]

Well said Herb! Best of luck & your work will live on!

[@alderoth01]

Sounds like a much deserved break. I hope he finds the peace he's looking for. He's put in a LOT of work.

[@oldercloudify]

One can only wish the man and his family the best. Can’t imagine what 30 years of touring does to one’s body.

[@bvz9712]

Love Primus! Definitely respect the drummer, good luck with him and healing. Thanks for the video.

[@ALifeWellSteved]

And this kids is why you make sure to see your favorite bands when you can. So lucky to have gotten to see Tim play when I had the chance. The recordings may last forever but those fleeting chances to experience it for yourself are more rare than you think.

[@chriscubbernuss3288]

Thank you to Herb and Primus for their dedication and the music I grew up with. I hope all of you and your families receive all the support and respect you deserve.

[@hillbillyhogdogger4533]

Love ya Herb. So glad I got to see you one time. Been one of my favourite drummers for a long time now. Here's to Herb, the ginseng drummer. 🤘❤️👏❤️🤘 Have a great retirement mate.

[@toddwilliams8128]

Thank you for the music, Herb, and best wishes going forward.

[@SunsetStarship]

I hope he has a wonderful life and enjoys every minute of it.

[@tamakoura8736]

We thank you for your service. Again.

[@that1dude2877]

Nothing but love for you & your work in Primus brother! 🤘 Live long and prosper!🖖

[@TheeDavidDee]

I wish Herb he best. Grateful for him and excited that he's found what's most important him and his family right now.

[@marcusbrown87]

Health is important so I get it. Herb and Primus have been my favorites for over 20 years. His legacy lives on through the music. All the best Herb!

[@valeniusthekat]

I'm happy I got to see them play.... Rock on my friends 🥰🤘👍

[@thegreatfallingaway]

Many would say, "We'll miss you," but that's not appropriate, as Herb is still here with us. Instead, I say thank you-thank you for all of the incredible years of music that have been a part of my life for decades! You are loved and appreciated greatly, Herb Tim Alexander, and we wish you the absolute best on your next adventure.

[@WWROABM]

Go Tim!!! Be well and stay safe!!! Enjoy the family!!!! Thanks for being you!!!!

[@antieverything4059]

I’m glad to hear this. My first thoughts about losing his passion cries out mental health and depression, always concerning. Sorry to hear about the struggles but all the best, much love and respect

[@trujitsu896]

And just like that, Herb is a legend. Absolutely makes sense and respectfully correct. Watched 4 primus shows, can’t blame him for needing his family and having different priorities than the “music scene”.

[@BaileysDad369]

Wow!! What a well written and thoughtful statement! Much respect for him and good luck . I hope you find everything you are looking for!

[@daviddevilliers2828]

A great drummer who brings a lot in the world of music, I respect him for all of this, thank you Tim you are extraordinary

[@jonh2119]

All respect, Tim! Thanks for all the music, you've been a big source of inspiration for me. I wish you all the best!

[@randomsasquatchwithwifi4090]

Thank you for the memories, Herb! Wishing you health and happiness! Visit once in a while.

[@JohnnygSawyer]

I can totally relate to Tim. I've had chronic pain for the last 6 years. Tim and I had a music class together and he's a solid guy. Our age and injuries make it hard to enjoy killer gigs.

[@redleader3394]

I'm so glad I got to see them live during the Sesanta Tour. Was looking forward to seeing Sesanta 2.0! Wishing Herb the best with his family. Health and Happiness!

[@UrbanHillbillyVideos]

Wishing the best for Herb in his retirement. His unique style makes him hard to replace. Hopefully Les and Ler will find the right fit, and keep on keeping on!

[@amargnwalkr]

Nothing but respect for Herb. One of my favorite drummers ever. All the best to him.

[@keepontruckinoutlawlife1248]

Definitely wishing him the absolute best with his health.

[@ssgoifvet]

I can really appreciate Herb's honesty and his take on his career. Good on you Herb... We love you and will miss you... Family first always...

[@lulalula7555]

with love and understanding ,I'm right there with you Tim. your thoughts and feelings truly resonate with me. thank you for the wisdom you've shared. it's something I'll carry with me always. whishing you all best on your journey Of music, learning, and sharing. KEEP INSPIRING.

[@Bull22Delta]

We love your contributions, and that's all that matters. Have a great life!

[@danmcleod1938]

That's why classical musicians especially understand that they're essentially athletes and that they need to care for their bodies. He's right about there not being an adequate focus on that, but I guess that's part of being young and part of rock and roll!

[@richardatwood3623]

Saw Primus in August 2024...Tim played a solo before the song "Eleven". Won't forget it. Amazing drummer. Take care of yourselves.

[@humblepiebytheslice1465]

Your health and the love and health of your family is more important than any job.

[@A_to_Zappa]

I saw Primus this summer with Tim on drums. Great show.

[@ronstewart6362]

I made the same decision last year. Not nearly at the level Herb and Primus are! But as a working professional musician for the last 30 years I had to prioritize my life away from my family. It wasn't my only income so it wasn't as hard a decision but once you get into your 50s the body and mind don't heal as fast and being away from your wife,kids and grandkids takes a bigger toll. Primus will find a replacement because there is No shortage of Fantastic musician's. I'm actually happy for both sides👍🎸

[@TheCocoaDaddy]

Thanks for posting this update! Hearing his explanation, I have to wonder if the "Tribute to Kings" tour took a toll on him. I remember Neil Peart went through the same thing, with being in pain and eventually not being able to play at the level he wanted to play at (ca. 2015-ish). There will always be a special place for "Herb" in my heart. Primus SUCKS!!!!

[@Silversmith70]

He is a unique drummer and the way he writes those songs its just inspiring. I wouldn't even think to play the stuff he does (nor could I) His drumming is important to me and probably to you too.

[@TonehengeProductions]

Totally get it man, I can only imagine how hard it has been trying to be a family man, and drummer. Glad to say I have gotten to see him play live many times, easily one of my top 3 favorite drummers next to Horgh from Immortal and Marco Minnemann.

[@marks7192]

Man. I dont remember what year i saw them open for Rush, over 30 years ago. but those guys just blew me away. I wish Herb the best on his path to a healthier lifestyle. Good luck to you Herb.

[@markreichert9210]

Thank you for all your sacrifices to music!

[@adamweston4152]

He's made the right decision and people should respect his decision, we all deserve to be happy.

[@BrandonMelvinDrums]

Danny's such a beast to offer to step in. He's taken on Beat lately too for old Crimson. it's awesome to see as a huge fan.

[@Annastasia666]

That is a powerful explanation. MUCH RESPECT!!

[@Volkmannx]

Good for Tim! Always loved his way of drumming, it is something!

[@monomamori]

I had a feeling the reasons would have been really deep, sensed and meaningful for leaving a band like Primus. Respect for Herb, and we should take his words as an example. No matter what, our own health and our own self care should always be #1 🙏🏼

[@brandonacker3290]

Having 2 girls myself I can totally understand. No more side jobs no more random stuff. I want to be there for all those cries and smiles. I get it brother thank you for all the great music you've done for us to enjoy!!

[@mountainhobbit1971]

the fact that the rest of the band was shocked that he left shows me none of them were that close at all...and that seems very sad to me. If his heart was not in it then good on him for listening to his heart. I am sure it wasn't an easy decision to make at all.

[@Aerospacer77]

God bless Herb for being an inspiration on the drums and on being a human being and taking care of himself mentally and physically. I wish him the best. ❤🙌🤙

[@mattsnacks]

LET’S GET JAY LANE BACK!

[@jayybone6227]

Yeah mon

[@waynedechant7896]

It's harvest time ,he might work for weed ! 😊

[@ClusterFugue]

I liked Jay's playing live when I saw 'em with that lineup about 15 years ago. Holy crap time flies! And I am so damn old. I've got Herb beat. Anyone know where "Brain" ended up after his Primus time? I think I'd be okay with him back to playing some psychedelic polka with Les and Ler again too. "The Brown Album" distorted drums took me a minute to come to terms with, but now I say Pull out the cannons boys. Steal us some wine! Puff Tijuana smalls ...

[@clintondearborn3016]

exelent coverage ty

[@GraveSource]

This simultaneously tears and warms my heart. I love Tim in Primus but at the end of the day I wish him well in whatever adventure he chooses.

[@19boro76]

If man has had a couple of cardiac arrests or heart issues, also a family, I would say we should give him the respect he deserves! He should be left in peace. He is a truly a great drummer though and It's sad that he steps down from drumming for Primus.

[@tedpaniccia275]

Respect to Tim! Wish him the best and he definitely left his mark on music!

[@GWHinCA]

Won't be the same without him. Hard to wrap my mind around Les's bass without Herbs drums. But I respect his decision and speaking as a 64 year old I can really see how time truly does fly by. It's important that he invest himself in his family life & his own physical & mental health. Thank you Herb. I wish you all the best.

[@cmscalvert]

Sorry he left, but I wish him the best in his recovery and hope he finds a new passion.

[@LargeBasstafarian]

My heart goes out to this man. Better to be "shocked and disappointed" for leaving Primus then shocked and disappointed that he joined Bonham and Ketih Moon in the graveyard. Must have been a tough decision

[@bfranco1519]

I get you lose the desire and energy as you get old, but in an email? Really? Seems like an in person conversation at least… Go luck Tim.

[@MyBichSustained]

He has every right to handle it as he sees fit...especially if he feels like the other guys treated him like a stranger. ..that's what I get from that...or a employee.

[@ge2719]

The email was to a magazine wasn't it... Doesn't mean that he cc'd his band mates on that email.

[@actuallyitskevin]

Nothing but respect. Herb was the man, and still is!

[@guzziguy2011]

Such great dudes, artists and legends! Tim will always be upper stratosphere in my best list!!!

[@jukejointjack]

One of my favorite drummers, much love Tim

[@susiejo143]

People retire, even people in bands deserve to retire and enjoy the rest of their life❤

[@leroyjones6170]

Good for him on his new chapter in life! Thanks for the great music as Tim is a great drummer!

[@Snatchystashy]

Since 89', I think the dude has the right. I really hope Herb finds another passion. He's one of my favorite drummers of all time.

[@catpocalypsenow8090]

He quit twice already, how could this have been a shock?

[@TheCiaMKultra]

Incredible trio that has gained a huge following for playing unique music ! Hope Brain is considering rolling back around.......

[@vonbeaver99]

Live your life my dude!

[@seansezz]

Is that the drummer from Major Lingo?

[@wo3111]

I really wish Tim the best and god bless you all