Queens of the Stone Age guitarist Josh Homme recently opened up about profound near-death experiences that have shaped his outlook on life. In an interview with Stereogum on November 26, 2023, Homme recounted a childhood boating accident that nearly cost him his life. This reflection comes as the band prepares for their unique concert film, Alive in the Catacombs, which captures their historic performance in the Paris Catacombs, the resting place of six million people.
During the conversation with interviewer Rachel Brown, Homme detailed the incident that occurred at Lake Ponderay in Idaho when he was just 12 years old. He was thrown from a boat while fully clothed and found himself struggling against the elements to swim back to safety. “I’ve had a couple near-death experiences,” Homme stated. “My first real death experience was almost dying myself, at like 12, almost drowning.”
The terrifying ordeal left a lasting impression on him. He described how he had to swim a considerable distance while battling a storm. In a moment of desperation, a stranger intervened, pulling him to safety. “This guy pulled me by my hair and underwear,” Homme recalled, humorously adding, “He gave me the most enormous wedgie that I’ve ever known.”
This brush with death ignited a determination in Homme to pursue his passions without hesitation. “The afterglow of that, sort of radiating, and saying, ‘Oh, I’m not dead, and this is working out great,’” he said. “I remember thinking, ‘I’m just going to do what I want to do. I don’t think I should wait and just do what everyone else says.’”
Reflections on Mortality
Homme’s experiences with mortality extend beyond that childhood incident. He previously disclosed to NME that he faced death during a leg surgery in 2010. Complications arose during the procedure, and he briefly died on the operating table. Following that experience, he spent three months recuperating.
In more recent years, Homme has encountered significant health challenges, including a rare form of cancer diagnosed in 2022. While he did not specify the type, he confirmed successful surgery and a lengthy recovery period. Additionally, in 2024, he underwent emergency surgery while on tour in Europe, prompting the cancellation of several shows for “essential medical care.”
Queens of the Stone Age completed their tour in August 2023 and are set to support the Foo Fighters on their Take Cover Tour in August 2026. They will also open for System of a Down in Europe next summer.
Musical Milestones and Inspirations
In the midst of these life experiences, Homme’s musical journey continues to thrive. He has been recognized for his distinctive sound, playing a variety of electric and acoustic guitars, including his signature model, the Maton BB1200 JH. Recently, he had the rare opportunity to play George Harrison’s Rosewood Fender Telecaster, famously used in the recording of Let It Be.
The experience left him in awe. “Seriously, I think I have to stop playing these things,” he remarked, reflecting on the significance of such instruments. “I’ll tell you, some things you are supposed to touch, and some things you are never supposed to touch.”
Homme’s reflections on his near-death experiences and the impact of his musical career highlight the intertwining of life and art. As he prepares for upcoming performances, his journey continues to resonate with fans and fellow musicians alike.
