Drummer explains sudden exit from iconic rock band, cites ‘mental and physical struggles’

Former Primus drummer Tim “Herb” Alexander has broken his silence and noted the reasons for his sudden departure from the experimental rock band. On Oct. 17, the band released a statement stating Alexander “abruptly” quit effectively immediately.
After several email exchanges, Alexander, 59, told the band he “lost his passion for playing.” This past Saturday, the drummer shared a detailed letter with Rolling Stone and went into the reasons why he left in his own words
“My decision to leave the band was rooted in a deep need to prioritize my mental and physical health,” said Anderson. “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.”
In July 2014, Alexander had a heart attack and underwent open heart surgery. He then had a second heart attack in 2016.
“When I first joined Primus, I was 24 years old,” noted Alexander. “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.”
Aside from the physical toll, Alexander noted the mental anguish he went through touring. He said he “missed his family and felt very lonely this past year.” Alexander said he is arriving at a better place as he prioritizes extensive rehabilitation.
Famously known for his “polyrhythmic” playing, Anderson had three stints with Primus. In 1989, he replaced Primus’s seventh drummer, Jay Lane, and stayed until 1996. He rejoined the band in 2003 for the band’s EP “Animals Should Not Try to Act Like People” and exited the band in 2010. Anderson would rejoin Primus for (presumably) the final time in 2013.
Primus “plans on searching for the greatest drummer on earth” ahead of their 2025 tour with A Perfect Circle and Puscifer.
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Murjani Rawls may be reached at [email protected] and followed on Twitter at @MurjaniRawls.