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!!

[@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 😂😂😂😂😂

[@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.

[@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

[@danielmantell3084]

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

[@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.

[@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!

[@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.

[@Lilmickcrocodiledundee0001]

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

[@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.

[@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!

[@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.

[@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.

[@Infernoblade1010]

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

[@RichardMatte-r7e]

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

[@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!

[@bvz9712]

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

[@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.

[@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.

[@MrDingus64]

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

[@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 ❤️❤️

[@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.

[@hippydippy]

Well Spoken... Bless his heart.

[@valeniusthekat]

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

[@that1dude2877]

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

[@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.

[@toddwilliams8128]

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

[@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.

[@tysonblake515]

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!

[@A_to_Zappa]

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

[@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.

[@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.

[@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”.

[@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.

[@shuggabizkit3269]

They should really bring back Brain. Antipop and the Brown Album was badass. I jam those more than cheese and frizzle.

[@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!

[@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.

[@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!

[@keepontruckinoutlawlife1248]

Definitely wishing him the absolute best with his health.

[@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!!!!

[@Annastasia666]

That is a powerful explanation. MUCH RESPECT!!

[@heartbeatsdrum]

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.

[@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.

[@JazzyJonas]

Wow. Tim is not only a genius on the drums.

[@markreichert9210]

Thank you for all your sacrifices to music!

[@humblepiebytheslice1465]

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

[@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 ...

[@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. 🙏🏼💙🤘🏼

[@Bull22Delta]

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

[@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!!

[@leroyjones6170]

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

[@TheCiaMKultra]

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

[@adamweston4152]

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

[@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.

[@mad_cat_1st]

1:59 - Jay Lane is the solution. Herb is highly respected, and will be sorely missed. Peace, Bro! I still have Frizzle Fry on red vinyl. It's one of my most treasured LPs, and I've been collecting for 40 years. I saw LAUNDRY at The Brickworks in Chico CA around 1997 or 8? You guys were amazing. Be well, Herb!

[@timothysisneros]

Happy trails, Herb. Thank you very much for all the great music and undeniable inspiration. Primus Sucks! Live long and prosper, brotha.

[@jeffhelton3364]

Hard to dispute when you put it all like that. Best wishes to tim! It was always great watching you play

[@SunsetStarship]

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

[@jefwhitehead4301]

Always Always been a huge fan of TA’s playing … Was fortunate to see Primus quite a bit in the Bay Area late 80’s-early 90’s… Saw them wipe the stage with several big name bands they opened for… Long live Herb❤️‍🔥

[@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.

[@selw0nk]

Bring back Brain who used to drum for Primus.

[@Irespecktyouall]

It's Brains choice...not Primus....and Brain doesn't want to anymore.

[@danielwitham1791]

He's a brilliant drummer, but not the best fit for tgeir grooves. As stated above, he also said he doesn't want to play for them. I think this whole ordeal shows just how much drumming takes a tole on the musicians body compared to other instruments in the rock band format. You really have to be fit and healthy to play a whole set of drums for a band like this. I honestly never thought Tim would be back after his late 90s and other breaks in the 00s and 2010s. My back is farked from drumming and I'm not even 40 yet. No way could i do what Tim had stepped up to do recently. There's so many great drummers out there that this could actually be the fuel that prinud needs to keep going with Ler and Les maturing, but still able to play their not as demanding parts as the drums in Primus (I'm not saying their parts aren't demanding or incredibly talented for the genre, but the energy and concentration necessary to play just isn't up there with what it takes to play drums for them). I wish them all the best ❤️🙏🏻

[@antondavidovic3996]

I think Gavin Harrison would be a perfect choice, but he's already in a band and has other projects going on so I doubt it, but I think his style would perfectly fit Les' bass

[@ClusterFugue]

​@@IrespecktyouallNo? I was wondering what his disposition might be. I also don't remember what if anything was announced when Jay (I think his first return followed "Brain's" tenure) returned to the fray, either. Anyone? Anyone? Bueller?

[@cancunamericanatl7162]

Bueller.... 🦗 🦗 🤭

[@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👍🎸

[@myopicautisticmetal9035]

I love that guy, Been a fan since he joined the band and will always love the guy.

[@alexandrehenri-bhargava2741]

Sessanta was the best show I’ve ever seen. Glad I got to see it with the OG lineup. Best wishes to Herb. He probably didn’t know how to announce it. But this is much better than hearing about a suicide from burnout

[@sole__doubt]

It sounds like depression on Tim's part. Losing the passion for doing something you have loved for most of your life is a huge indicator of depression. Sadly its something that can come out of nowhere and many people have to stay constantly vigilant to avoid.

[@NotTheBot]

Could be. Depression was (maybe still is) a common effect of open heart surgery.

[@patcandelora8496]

Sounds like a really good dude! All the best to him!

[@vonbeaver99]

Live your life my dude!

[@BIGFESH]

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

[@bonesc7201]

Amen Herb..! I did it from 77 to 99 and I'm still doing it in a different capacity of that industry, but certain things come first today at age 65...

[@catpocalypsenow8090]

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

[@patrickwade757]

saw a PRimus show in Chicago a couple of years ago where Herb i think was in hospital for heart issues. Danny Carey drummed that night. I had no idea that was going to be the case. it was phenomenal and special. but I've also seen the OG primus lineup 5-10 times and the core group. including Herb were always freaking amazing.

[@Le0byn]

One of my favorite drummers, i wish him the best

[@Errcyco]

His work at the end of the song Frizzle Fry still gives me goosebumps. It’s hard as fuck.. killer speed and timing.

[@BATMAN7666]

Tim I'm sad to see you go. But wish you well on your new journey. I have sailed the sea of cheese with you. And enjoyed Green Naugahyde in later years. We will always have Riot Fest 2014. When you watched us enjoy Primus while recouping from Heart surgery.

[@comfortablynumb9342]

It was time. I can respect that decision. And I wish him the best.

[@DeadKoby]

I've had other bands that stuff like this happened........... I've been in this band for 10-20 years, and now I'd like to retire and spend time with my family. As a fan, you can respect that. It's not in anger, and likely they can remain friends and play a song or two down the road.

[@TonerLow]

Bummer. Ive been trying to see Primus my whole life and for different reasons always ended up missing them.

[@bsb1975]

One of my top 5 drummers. Maybe top 3. But Tim's done this before. He might come back after some time home, or he might stay quit. Either way, thanks for all the great music. As for Primus, I would start jamming with some new drummers and see if anything hits. Hit up Jay Lane or Brian Mantia. Grab Buckethead. See if they want to have a little reunion tour. The Brian Mantia/Buckethead era was cool AF.

[@aaronlorinchack1942]

That is valid and respectable.

[@bjwnashe5589]

No doubt touring gets harder when you are 50-60 years old. And heavy drumming can take a toll on one’s body. Just ask Phil Collins.

[@leddygee1896]

There are a lot of bands from the past nowadays that just can't seem to say when. Not naming names. We all have our own lists of bands who should bow out gracefully...

[@susiejo143]

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

[@Hull9]

Good for him for making the decision that best suits his desire to live a different life.

[@johnperra3695]

What a class act and to be completely honest with you I agree with him. I have always said family 1st+ you really have to take care of yourself.

[@clintondearborn3016]

exelent coverage ty

[@FraaaaaankRizzo]

For Primus music, Danny Carey, Matt Cameron, Jay Lane ( returning). Those are my top 3 picks. Jay is top of these three since he already has experience with them, Danny for his left field approach and Matt for his originality on smaller kits. I’m curious who they go with and likely not any of these.

[@donovanjones4175]

Great bob Scott. Toronto Primus needs this guy

[@denisrogers4358]

I used to see Tim in “Major Lingo” a hundred years ago…. Wish him good health and grateful for decades of rad tunes.

[@Christianharold2]

Much love and respect to Tim.

[@plasticoflamingo2952]

Tim earned a rest. Good luck on you, sir! I do hope you can do a show with Les and Ler, here and there, though. You ARE a BEAST!

[@seansezz]

Is that the drummer from Major Lingo?

[@beatmasterbossy]

We love Tim I love Primus, but I totally respect his wishes and I think we all want him to be happy and healthy and with his family. They can thumpa-thumpa on with another drummer.

[@redhotchilifan98]

It’s a total bummer but I completely get all his reasons. At some point it’s just to give it up. He will always be one of my favorite drummers, but I’m also glad they are deciding to continue.

[@Barfbagdontsag]

It’s funny. When your dream is to be a musician at that level this seems like something you’d never do, but as someone that grew up without a dad being present, you gotta love Herb for making the choice to put health and family first. Wish the best to him and his family.

[@markstern8699]

Best wishes, health and happiness!

[@F13thvoorhees]

He's a guy well aware he has ten or twenty years left at best. He's choosing to have his family and home... and that's more natural than anything else.

[@kingkillah101]

Guys you gotta understand us drummers can't last as long as other instruments you're gonna see it more and more. Met Tim once - great guy and very talented. By the way when we was outta Primus he was in Blue Man etc always working ❤

[@jokermtb]

Life is short…..he is realizing that and doing what is good for him

[@eddiem5997]

Thanks Herb, you will be missed. Cheers 🍻