From Feral Teens to Funk Rock Icons: Flea's Journey with Red Hot Chili Peppers
Red Hot Chili Peppers' bassist Flea reflects on his tumultuous upbringing in the 1970s Los Angeles, where he describes himself as a shy and weird kid who transformed into a wild teenager after moving from New York. He recalls engaging in reckless behavior and committing petty crimes while being unsupervised on the streets.
Flea's life took a significant turn when he met Anthony Kiedis, his future bandmate, at Fairfax High School in 1976. The duo quickly formed a strong bond and embarked on a series of adventures involving drugs, girls, and troublemaking. Their carefree and rebellious lifestyle in Hollywood during the '70s earned them the label of being "feral" due to their lack of financial resources and survival instincts.
The formation of Red Hot Chili Peppers in 1982 marked the beginning of a musical journey for Flea and Kiedis, along with their friends Hillel Slovak and Jack Irons. The band's eclectic taste in music, ranging from funk to jazz and rock, reflected their diverse influences and passion for exploring different genres. Flea encourages young music enthusiasts to immerse themselves in live music experiences and shares a quirky tip on sneaking into events.
In conclusion, Flea's recollections of his formative years in '70s Hollywood with Anthony Kiedis shed light on the raw and unfiltered experiences that shaped their friendship and musical journey. Their shared adventures and rebellious spirit laid the foundation for the iconic Red Hot Chili Peppers, showcasing their resilience and passion for music.