Franz Kenneth Stahl (born October 30, 1962) is an American musician best known as the former guitarist for Foo Fighters and a founding member of the influential hardcore punk band Scream. Stahl’s energetic playing and contributions to the hardcore and alternative rock genres have earned him recognition as a pivotal figure in these musical movements.
Early life[]
Born in Alexandria, Virginia, Franz Stahl developed a passion for music early in life. Influenced by punk rock and the burgeoning Washington, D.C., hardcore scene, he began playing guitar and joined his first bands in the early 1980s.
Career[]
Stahl co-founded Scream in 1981 with his brother Pete Stahl (vocals), Skeeter Thompson (bass), and Kent Stax (drums). The band became a cornerstone of the hardcore punk movement, releasing influential albums like Still Screaming (1983) and This Side Up (1985) on Dischord Records. Scream's aggressive sound and politically charged lyrics gained them a dedicated following in the punk scene.
In 1997, Stahl joined Foo Fighters as a guitarist following the departure of Pat Smear. He toured extensively with the band and contributed to the early stages of their third studio album, There Is Nothing Left to Lose (1999). However, Stahl left the band before the album's completion due to creative differences.
After Foo Fighters, Stahl returned to independent music projects, including reuniting with Scream for live performances and new recordings. He has also collaborated with other musicians and contributed to various punk and rock projects.
Personal life[]
Stahl remains active in the music industry, focusing on projects that reflect his punk rock roots. He continues to perform with Scream and resides in Virginia, where he is involved in the local music scene.
Discography[]
With Scream[]
- Still Screaming (1983)
- This Side Up (1985)
- Banging the Drum (1986)
- No More Censorship (1988)
- Fumble (1993)
- DC Special (2023)
With Foo Fighters[]
- Contributions to early sessions for There Is Nothing Left to Lose (1999)
Other Projects[]
- Various collaborations and independent releases.