Drummer with the rock group Red Hot Chili Peppers since 1988, Chad Smith is an American musician born on October 25, 1961. Induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame for the group took place in 2012. In addition, Smith plays drums for the 2007-formed all-instrumental combo Chad Smith’s Bombastic Meatbats and the 2008-formed hard rock supergroup Chickenfoot. On the Chicks’ album Taking the Long Way, which garnered five Grammy nominations in 2007, he collaborated with them.
Ghost notes and Smith’s quick right foot make his technique well known. He lists the following musicians as influences on his drumming: Buddy Rich, John Bonham, Ian Paice, Mitch Mitchell, Bill Ward, Keith Moon, Stewart Copeland, Neil Peart, Ginger Baker, Roger Taylor, and Topper Headon.
How did Chad Smith join RHCP?
One of the best rhythm units in rock music over the past 30 years is made up of Red Hot Chili Peppers drummer Chad Smith and bassist Flea. After Jack Irons quit the group in 1988 as a result of the overdose death of guitarist Hillel Slovak, Smith joined the group.
Flea recently discussed the nature of the pair’s connection, saying that they “talk by playing” and don’t hang out outside of the band despite their long-standing rhythmic partnership.