Lineup changes, drugs, controversy, changing musical tastes and getting older — take your pick of any single one of those things, let alone a combination, and you’ll find the death knell for many a rock band. But 40 years since the release of their self-titled debut album, Red Hot Chili Peppers are evolving, producing new music and still thriving on the road. Known out of the gate for a unique blend of funk, metal and rock delivered through wild, clothing-optional stage shows, the Chilis have become six-time Grammy winners and a member of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Whether you know them from their silver-painted selves in the 1991 video for “Give It Away” or their recent hit “Black Summer,” the Chilis have been cool for ages. Learn more about the band’s origins and journey to their current tour in The Unofficial Story: Red Hot Chili Peppers, filled with fantastic photos.
WHY WE LOVE THE RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS • Famous first for baring their bums, the genre-busting California rockers have lasted in the biz by baring their souls
BRING ON THE FUNK • Raised and praised in the early ’80s L.A. punk scene, the Chilis stood out for their wild antics but wildly good fusion of rock and R&B
A MOMENT IN TIME WITH THE BAND
MAINSTREAM MAYH BY • Wanting attention and handling it are two different things. Even as the Chilis became more acclaimed and popular, each member had to fight different demons
SOULS TO SQUEEZE • Every musician who joined the band seasoned each album, song or tour with his own secret spice
ROAD TRIPPIN’ • However much the band grooves when heard through your headphones, they shake, rattle and roll when onstage. Here are their 10 top live moments (so far)
HOW I GOT THAT SHOT
REACHING A HIGHER GROUND • They may be highly decorated rock veterans now, but the Chilis are still exploring new sounds, even as they become part of the pop culture firmament
“THAT WAS CUTE. DO YOU PLAY FOR THE LUKEWARM CHILI PEPPERS?”
RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS IN REVIEW • The 15 essential tracks that define their sound
THE STUDIO ALBUM CHECKLIST
Red Hot Chili Peppers - The Ultimate Fan Guide
PHOTO CREDITS
