My Top 11 Red Hot Chili Pepper Songs of All Time

The Red Hot Chili Peppers are on of my all time favorite bands, and have been making incredible music for almost 45 years. They formed in 1982, and have been on a musical roller coaster ever since. They've battled line-up changes, deaths and substance abuse, but have continued to weather the storm and produce some of the greatest music in rock and roll history. They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2012 and released their last full length album in 2022. Their music incorporates elements from rock and roll, heavy metal, funk, punk and hip hop. Their 1999 album, Californication, remains one of the greatest rock albums ever produced!

Number 11 - "Dosed"

From the Album By The Way, released in 2002

When I listen to this song, I imagine myself driving down through California with the wind blowing through my hair, having no worries in the world. Despite having a very calm vibe, "Dosed" is very complex. The song features four guitars, played by John Frusciante and Flea, all playing completely different riffs. The Red Hot Chili Peppers are at their best when Flea and Frusciante shine, and when Frusciante and Anthony Kiedis get to harmonize! This isn't their loudest or funkiest song, but it is one of their best.

Number 10 - "C'mon Girl"

From the Album Stadium Arcadium, released in 2006

In my opinion, this song gives me everything I love about the Chili Peppers - Anthony Keidis' unique style of singing, John Frusciante's incredible guitar playing, Chad Smith's steady drumming, and the steady bass playing from the very beginning of the song from Flea. Actually, that steady bass line from start to finish is a great metaphor for the Red Hot Chili Peppers. He's been a constant figure in the band from the very beginning, and according to Rolling Stone, he's been ranked as the second-best bassist of all time (behind John Entwistle of The Who).

Number 9 - "The Shape I'm Taking"

From the Album Return Of The Dream Canteen, released in 2022