Flea Turns 64: Born October 16, 1962
Born Michael Peter Balzary on October 16, 1962, Flea turns 64 today. Put the bass at the center of your birthday listening session.
On This Day · October 16
Flea’s birthday is October 16. Born Michael Peter Balzary in Melbourne, Australia, in 1962, the Red Hot Chili Peppers bassist and co-founder turns 64 today. His autobiography publisher, Hachette, confirms his full birth date.
Before the Chili Peppers
The story behind Acid for the Children follows his early years before the band. After moving to Los Angeles in 1972, he met Anthony Kiedis at Fairfax High School. Their shared history would eventually lead to the Red Hot Chili Peppers.
For today’s listening session, give the bass your full attention. Follow where it locks into the drums, where it answers the vocal and where it leaves room for the guitar. If you play six strings, that exercise is worth your time too: hearing the whole band changes what you choose to play.
A bass with his name on it
His instrument connections include a collaboration with Fender on the Flea Signature Active Jazz Bass. Fender’s account describes its humbucking pickup and Aguilar preamp, a different specification from the vintage Jazz Bass also associated with him.
For the guitar side of the band, read our John Frusciante guide. Which Flea bass line makes you reach for an instrument?
AI-assisted retrospective illustration adapted from “Flea” (52183086009) by Hel Davies (HelDavies), 2022. Source and adapted artwork are licensed CC BY-SA 2.0. Composition and appearance changed; no endorsement implied.
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