There is a unique sense of loneliness that accompanies being a touring rock star, regardless of the crowd size.

This is how Josh Homme of Queens of the Stone Age feels when he is on tour, far from home.

Why Does Josh Homme Experience ‘Loneliness’ While Touring?

In a recent interview with Zane Lowe from Apple Music, Homme discussed his feelings ahead of the release of Queens of the Stone Age’s ninth studio album, Perfecth, on October 30. He opened up about the challenges he faces as a touring musician while striving for personal growth.

“The touring lifestyle, on one hand, fosters a sense of arrested development, as every night feels like Saturday, and you are constantly partaking in someone else’s version of Saturday,” Homme explained.

It is after performing that Homme feels his “interior loneliness becomes more pronounced.”

How Has Family Life Influenced Josh Homme’s Loneliness?

A father of three, Homme divorced musician Brody Dalle in 2019. The ensuing years included a lengthy custody battle, resulting in Homme gaining sole custody of all three children, as reported by Pitchfork.

The 53-year-old artist mentioned that being away from his children intensifies his loneliness while on tour.

“Having a family makes everything more significant than music, and that distance becomes very noticeable,” he stated.

READ MORE: Queens of the Stone Age’s Josh Homme Has a Unique Hobby + Now Dave Grohl Is Involved

Throughout the discussion, Homme emphasized that he was not “complaining” about his life as a touring musician; rather, he was sharing what it feels like when he is offstage.

“This is just part of what happens out there; you find yourself observing other people’s lives. You witness young couples on their first dates… I’ve seen marriage proposals, arguments, breakups, and families enjoying time in the park. You see fights, flirting, and all sorts of interactions.”

It is during these moments that Homme reflects on his family and feels the weight of loneliness.

“When you have a family at home, their life continues without you during those times. You must come to terms with what that means and how it affects you. I find that particularly challenging.”

Did Josh Homme Ever Aim to Be a ‘Frontman’?

Since its inception in 1996, Homme has been the consistent member of Queens of the Stone Age. Despite being the band’s face and self-proclaimed “frontman,” this was never his intention.

Now, he feels an obligation to present his best self.

“When you tour with an exceptional frontman, you think, ‘I should be doing that,’ but it seems so distant. You strive to evolve into an authentic version of yourself on stage,” he shared.

This journey left Homme feeling somewhat “lost,” especially in the early days.

“At times, I’ve struggled with aspects of this role and dealt with it in ways that included self-sabotage or feelings of frustration.”

WATCH: Josh Homme’s Interview With Zane Lowe

The band has announced their North American tour for 2027, starting March 6 in Mexico City. Below are all dates and locations:

March 6 – Mexico City, MX @ Estadio Ciudad de los Deportes w/ Interpol
March 12-14 – Buenos Aires, Argentina @ Lollapalooza #
March 12-14 – Santiago, Chile @ Lollapalooza #
March 19-21 – São Paulo, BR @ Lollapalooza #
May 1 – San Diego, Calif. @ Viejas Arena ^
May 2 – Inglewood, Calif. @ Kia Forum ^
May 4 – Oakland, Calif. @ Oakland Arena ^
May 5 – Sacramento, Calif. @ Golden 1 Center ^
May 7 – Seattle, Wash. @ Climate Pledge Arena ^
May 9 – Portland, Ore. @ Moda Center ^
May 11 – Salt Lake City, Utah @ Delta Center ^
May 12 – Morrison, Colo. @ Red Rocks ^
May 14 – Saint Paul, Minn. @ Grand Casino Arena ^
May 15 – Milwaukee, Wis. @ American Family Insurance Amphitheater ^
May 16 – Rosemont, Ill. @ Allstate Arena ^
May 18 – Indianapolis, Ind. @ Gainbridge Fieldhouse Arena ^
May 19 – Columbus, Ohio @ Nationwide Arena ^
May 21 – Pittsburgh, Pa. @ Petersen Events Center ^
May 22 – Detroit, Mich. @ Little Caesars Arena ^
May 24 – Boston, Mass. @ TD Garden ^

^ w/ Pixies, Wheelchair Sports Camp
# Festival Date

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