RHCP, or the Red Hot Chili Peppers are one of the most iconic American rock bands that formed out of the 80s Los Angeles music scene. The group’s musical style primarily consists of rock with an emphasis on funk and elements from other genres such as punk rock and psychedelic rock. Throughout the decades, the band has seen multiple lineup changes, with the most stable and well-known formation being Anthony Kiedis (vocals), Flea (bass), John Frusciante (guitar), and Chad Smith (drums).

The Red Hot Chili Peppers was formed by high school friends Anthony Kiedis, Michael “Flea” Balzary, Hillel Slovak, and Jack Irons. Their early music was a mix of funk, punk, and hip-hop, and they quickly gained notoriety for their wild performances and occasionally playing on stage wearing nothing but a sock.

Their self-titled debut album was released in 1984 but failed to make a significant impact. Slovak and Irons left the band shortly after to focus on another band, What Is This?, leading to several changes in guitarists and drummers over the next few years.

Slovak and Irons returned to the Red Hot Chili Peppers in 1986 and helped create their 1987 album, “The Uplift Mofo Party Plan,” which saw some chart success. However, Slovak tragically died from a heroin overdose in 1988. His death greatly affected the band, leading Irons to leave again.

Despite the loss, the band continued with the addition of guitarist John Frusciante and drummer Chad Smith. This lineup released “Mother’s Milk” in 1989, which became a minor hit. Their real breakthrough, however, came with their 1991 album “Blood Sugar Sex Magik.” Produced by Rick Rubin, the album included hits like “Under the Bridge” and “Give It Away,” catapulting the band to international fame.

Frusciante’s Departure and Return

John Frusciante, uncomfortable with the band’s newfound success, left the band in 1992 and struggled with drug addiction in the following years. The band cycled through a number of guitarists before settling on Dave Navarro, with whom they recorded “One Hot Minute” (1995). The album received mixed reviews and was considered a commercial disappointment compared to its predecessor.

Frusciante rejoined the band in 1998 after overcoming his addiction. The reunited lineup released “Californication” in 1999, which became a massive success and spawned several hit singles. This was followed by “By the Way” (2002) and “Stadium Arcadium” (2006), both of which continued the band’s success.

Red Hot Once More

Frusciante left the band again in 2009, and the band recruited Josh Klinghoffer, a touring member, as their new guitarist. With Klinghoffer, they released “I’m With You” (2011) and “The Getaway” (2016), both of which were commercially successful but didn’t reach the heights of their earlier work.

In a surprise move, the band announced in 2019 that Frusciante would be returning, replacing Klinghoffer. Fans eagerly awaited new material from the classic lineup.

The Red Hot Chili Peppers have become known for their distinctive sound combining rock, funk, and psychedelic influences, their energetic live performances, and their ability to blend commercial success with critical acclaim. They have sold over 80 million records worldwide and were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2012.

Despite the numerous changes in lineup and the personal struggles of its members, the Red Hot Chili Peppers have remained a major figure in the rock scene for over three decades, their music continuously evolving while maintaining the core elements that made them unique.

Ok. Let’s get to the vote. Note that the vote will only consist of the albums in the RHCP table of albums below and does not include any John Frusciante Solo Albums (which have their own poll).