Drummer Tim ‘Herb’ Alexander Explains Shock Exit From Primus

Former Primus drummer Tim “Herb” Alexander shared a statement and spoke about his decision to abruptly quit the band. Alexander’s third departure from the trio was initially announced by Primus on October 29 with little detail except that the drummer “lost his passion for playing.”

“A lot of times, you do something you love for a long time, and sometimes the passion turns into a job, and sometimes that job doesn’t feel like it’s your being anymore,” Alexander told Rolling Stone. “Over time, I started realizing that it was affecting my physical life, it was affecting my mental life, and it was affecting my family life, and my heart just wasn’t in it,” the drummer continued. “When I discovered that I’m struggling with all these things, I had to sit and think about exactly what am I doing. I don’t think I’ve ever chosen my path in life, I think I’ve just always thought ‘I’m a drummer, I’m just gonna do music,’ and things came to me, accepting whatever happens.”

Tim “Herb” Alexander was part of the classic Primus lineup with bassist Les Claypool and guitarist Larry “Ler” LaLonde. He joined the band in 1989 and first left in 1996. Alexander was also behind the kit for Primus from 2003 – 2010 and 2013 through the recent announcement. He contributed to such iconic albums as 1990’s Frizzle Fry, 1991’s Sailing The Seas Of Cheese and 1993’s Pork Soda.

Alexander told Rolling Stone he was surprised the band’s statement only used part of the note he sent to Claypool and LaLonde. “Initially, I wrote this letter from my heart to those guys, to let them know [I was leaving]… It was very heartfelt, it was very loving, I said positive things about how much I appreciated them and how much admiration there was,” the drummer said.

“So it was very surprising that only certain parts would be released to the whole world,” Alexander added. Tim Alexander, who also made it clear “I’m feeling really good” and his physical health didn’t lead to his departure, decided to release the complete statement via Rolling Stone.

Read Tim Alexander’s full statement regarding his departure from Primus below:

“I know there are a lot of questions about why I quit Primus and feel it’s important to share my story – for myself as well as our fans. Stepping away from Primus has been one of the most challenging decisions of my life, but ultimately, it came down to love—for myself, my family, and the life I want to create moving forward. I chose a path of love.

With regard to what I said to the band about ‘losing my passion for playing,’ I did say that. But I also said: “All of these tours left me feeling empty. My body hurts constantly.” This context is important. I also told them they deserve someone who wants to be there. And I meant it. As far as ‘abruptly’ goes, I suppose there’s never the perfect time to leave something you’ve been a part of for so long. Bands have their own inner workings and are a relationship. Sometimes it doesn’t feel balanced, and sometimes it doesn’t work out.

Over the past months, I’ve been in a place of deep healing and intensive mental health rehabilitation, learning to confront struggles I’ve carried for years. In this period of solitude, I’ve started to see with new clarity what no longer serves me, the people and situations that do not support my well-being, and the parts of my life I need to let go of to find peace and stability.

When I first joined Primus, I was 24 years old. I’m almost 60 now and not just a drummer, but also a husband and a dad. Being a drummer for almost four decades has taken its toll on my body. As I said previously, my body hurts. My hands hurt. My back hurts. Ten years ago, I had open heart surgery and am still dealing with the aftermath.

For so many years of my life, I slept, breathed and lived the music, giving it everything I had – and often at the expense of both my physical and mental health. Drumming is a strenuous profession – and coupled with touring and performing it can be exhausting on every level. But I love drumming and always will. Just as I will always hold so much love and appreciation for our fans, the music we made, the places we went and everything I learned along the way.

When we were coming up as young musicians, it was a different world than it is today. There wasn’t a focus on how this life affected us – it just wasn’t talked about – and I think we lost a lot of amazing musicians over the years because of that. I no longer feel the need to hide the fact that for the last year I wasn’t happy and was in a dark place emotionally. I desperately missed my family while on tour and felt very lonely.

My decision to leave the band was rooted in a deep need to prioritize my mental and physical health. I want to give my family the presence and energy they deserve and take care of myself in a way that allows me to thrive.

I view this next chapter as a positive fresh beginning that can hopefully inspire others to speak and live their own truths, even when it’s hard. I wish the band continued success; and to the fans who have stood by me, I want to thank you for your compassion and words of kindness. Your support has been a source of strength for me, and while I’m closing this chapter, I’m excited to explore a new path forward—one grounded in love, respect, and health.”

Primus’ statement revealed they will move forward with a two-night New Year’s Eve run at Oakland’s Fox Theater with “an augmented version of Primus featuring members of Holy Mackerel and Frog Brigade.” Then, Tool drummer Danny Carey will step in for the Primus set at Tool Live In The Sand in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic next March. Beyond that, Claypool and LaLonde will embark on a search for the “greatest drummer on earth” in time to join the band for Sessanta 2025.

Sessanta 2025 spans April 24 – June 7 featuring Primus, Puscifer and A Perfect Circle will embark on the Sessanta 2025 tour between April 24 – June 7. The six-week excursion will hit markets across North America.