When we read about music stars these days, it is more often than not a scandal, an absurdity, a 75th birthday, a visit to rehab, or sadly, an untimely death.
True, many have supported any number of causes with free concerts, a timely tweet or two, or even a big check.
And then there’s Dave Grohl, front man for the Foo Fighters, but so much more.
Dave is a thinking person’s rock star – a rarity in this environment, more reminiscent of John Lennon who put his career on the line to support any number of causes or indignities.
Grohl has a fascinating history – most of us were introduced to him as the drummer in Nirvana. And after Kurt Cobain’s tragic death, Grohl formed his next band – the Foo Fighters – and hasn’t looked back.
Throughout his 51 years, Grohl has gained perspective. He grew up in a suburb of Washington, D.C., the child of a writer and a teacher. Despite 
bouncing around from school to school, eventually dropping out of high school, far more interested in music than chemistry, algebra, and history, Grohl has made activism part of his repertoire from his earliest years.
He regularly publishes his thoughts on Instagram under “Dave’s True Stories,” and has also become a contributor to The Atlantic, a highly respected publication that consistently features thought leaders and authors from all walks of life.
Grohl is a mensch (definition linked here), something that can truly be said about very few people. Earlier this week, he penned an essay in The Atlantic: “In Defense of Our Teachers.” I urge you to read it – not because it was written by a rock star, but because it’s an important commentary on perhaps the most controversial issue facing us right now today: the reopening of schools.
Much of the dialogue on this topic has revolved around students, their parents (itching to return to work, tired of home schooling). But few observers have spent much time, energy, or thought considering the teachers.
Grohl’s mom is now 82 and obviously had a huge influence on his life and experiences.
She obviously taught him very well.
The essay is here and you can listen to an audio version on Soundcloud here.
And below, Dave’s read on YouTube.
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Loved this piece.
Thank you.