Full Breakdown
Queens of the Stone Age Reunite with Former Bassist Nick Oliveri on Stage After a Decade
4/27/2026, 12:23:03 PM
Reunion at Joshua Tree
On 24 April 2026, Queens of the Stone Age (QOTSA) performed at the Joshua Tree Retreat Center in California and invited former bassist and vocalist Nick Oliveri onstage for “Auto Pilot,” a track from the 2000 album *Rated R*. It was Oliveri’s first live performance with QOTSA since 2014.
Background and Prior Relationship
Oliveri joined QOTSA in 1998, contributing bass, vocals, and co-writing on *Rated R* (2000) and *Songs for the Deaf* (2002). He was dismissed in 2004 after a series of incidents, including a naked performance in Brazil and allegations of aggression toward fans and a partner. Despite the split, Oliveri provided guest vocals on the 2013 track “If I Had a Tail” and performed with the band in Portland in 2014.
Tour Schedule Overview
Following the Joshua Tree show, QOTSA’s 2026 U.S. leg includes dates in Rancho Mirage (April 25), Portland (April 27), Seattle (April 29) and Lincoln (May 1). The band will also co-headline a North American tour with the Foo Fighters beginning 4 August 2026 through September 26, playing major venues across the United States and Canada.
Impact and Significance
The reunion shows willingness to revisit past collaborations, potentially influencing future recordings and setlists; fans called the moment a “treat,” indicating strong interest.
Official Statements & Responses
Josh Homme welcomed Oliveri as a longtime friend and highlighted the chance to perform with former collaborators. He noted the band’s gratitude for the opportunity to share the stage with musicians who are no longer present. Oliveri said he remains proud of his contributions to Queens of the Stone Age.
Criticism and Past Controversies
Media reports link Oliveri’s 2004 dismissal to the Brazil nudity incident and to alleged aggression toward fans and a partner. In 2011 he was arrested on suspicion of felony domestic violence and later placed on three years of probation, anger-management classes and community service.
Conflicting Accounts of Dismissal
One source attributes Oliveri’s firing primarily to the Brazil incident, while another emphasizes rumors of aggression and abuse as the decisive factor. No definitive clarification has been offered by the band.
Verbatim Quotes
- “one of the people that I love dearly” — Josh Homme, QOTSA frontman
- “I’m very proud of the stuff I did with Queens. Fortunately I haven’t done anything musically I don’t like. But the Queens stuff was great, I can hold my head up and feel good about it.” — Nick Oliveri, former bassist/vocalist
- “A couple years ago, I spoke to Nick about a rumor I heard,” — Josh Homme, BBC Radio 1 interview, 2005
- “I said, ‘If I ever find out that this is true, I can’t know you, man.'” — Josh Homme, BBC Radio 1 interview, 2005
Upcoming North American Tour
QOTSA will co-headline a North American tour with the Foo Fighters from August 4, 2026 through September 26, playing major venues across the United States and Canada. No further joint performances with Oliveri have been announced.
