Drum Sheet – Queen of the Stone Age – No One Knows

“No One Knows” by Queens of the Stone Age is one of the band’s most iconic tracks, featured on their 2002 album Songs for the Deaf. Known for its infectious riff, hypnotic groove, and stellar drumming, the song catapulted the band into mainstream rock success.

The song’s creation stemmed from a collaboration between QOTSA frontman Josh Homme and bassist Nick Oliveri. Homme had been experimenting with a repetitive, cyclical riff that combined desert rock heaviness with a melodic edge. The groove-based structure reflects Homme’s unique songwriting style: hypnotic riffs and tight rhythmic foundations layered with vocals that almost float over the music. This riff-centric approach gave the track a trancelike yet hard-hitting quality.

The standout element of “No One Knows” is undoubtedly the drumming by Dave Grohl, who joined the band as a session drummer during the recording of Songs for the Deaf. Grohl, best known as the drummer for Nirvana and frontman of Foo Fighters, brought a dynamic energy and precision that elevated the track to new heights. His playing is a masterclass in rock drumming, blending raw power with groove and finesse. From the song’s opening bars, Grohl’s tight snare hits and carefully punctuated cymbal work establish a driving rhythm. However, it’s in the chorus and bridge where his drumming truly shines—rolling fills, explosive tom work, and an almost primal intensity that gives the song its undeniable momentum.

Recording took place in 2002 at the legendary Rancho de la Luna studio in Joshua Tree, California, a place synonymous with the desert rock scene. The environment inspired the band’s creative process, with Grohl, Homme, and Oliveri playing off each other in the studio, capturing a live energy rarely heard in modern rock records.

Following its release, Queens of the Stone Age toured extensively, and “No One Knows” became a staple of their live sets. The song was performed with ferocious energy at major festivals like Coachella and Glastonbury. Live performances showcased Grohl’s drumming prowess, as his solos and improvisations drove fans wild. Even after Grohl returned to Foo Fighters, other QOTSA drummers honored his legacy by maintaining the powerful, complex drum parts.

For fans of drumming, “No One Knows” is a perfect blend of technical skill, creativity, and raw energy. Grohl’s iconic performance ensures that the song remains a timeless example of modern rock drumming excellence.