In Partnership with Cholula
Ask any millennial: who was the first (and probably favourite) band they saw live? Chances are, they’ll say the Red Hot Chili Peppers.
Even before reviving themselves with megahits like “Californication” at the turn of the century, the Chili Peppers were always more than your average rock band. For decades, they’ve served up their signature blend of rock, alternative, and funk to create a sound that has made its way onto generations of fans’ playlists.
In a way, they’re similar to another classic, Cholula Hot Sauce, which features a blend of intense native árbol and piquín peppers that lingers long after the first taste. Cholula is to Mexican food what the Red Hot Chili Peppers are to rock history – iconic and unforgettable.
So, with the heat of Cholula in mind, let’s look back at the Chili Peppers’ hottest songs.
“Scar Tissue” (1999)
Starting off the list with one of the Chili Peppers’ greatest songs. A mellow and deeply nostalgic guitar riff edges you into this summer classic. The song was first released in 1999 and, while it may sound like an easy-going tune, it’s also deeply reflective and marks a significant time for the band, as Anthony Kiedis became sober and guitarist John Frusciante returned to the lineup. “Scar Tissue” later became the title of Kiedis’ memoir, giving it extra significance.
“Under the Bridge” (1991)
“Under the Bridge” was the second single on their 1991 album Blood Sugar Sex Magik, and is one of the songs that took the Chili Peppers from the underground to the mainstream. The ballad’s melancholy melody, combined with Kiedis’ heartfelt lyrics about addiction, isolation and longing (“sometimes I feel like my only friend”), taps into a universal search for connection.
“Can’t Stop” (2002)
Jumping forward, the Chili Peppers released “Can’t Stop” on their eighth studio album, By the Way. From the very first note, the song bursts out of the gate with an energy that’s now synonymous with the band. As it comes to a close, however, Kiedis slows things down with a deep introspection he so often channels through his lyrics, cooing, “Can’t stop the spirits when they need you / This life is more than just a read-through.”
“Californication” (1999)
It wouldn’t be a Chili Peppers’ list without mention of “Californication.” Arguably one of their most popular songs, it’s a perfect blend of storytelling and catchy melody. The song explores themes of fame, culture, and disillusionment, all while maintaining that smooth, laid-back vibe. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the Chili Peppers’ longstanding status as one of the world’s favourite rock bands.
“Otherside” (1999)
Coming out in the same transformative year as “Scar Tissue” and “Californication,” “Otherside” is another song that taps into the band’s darker, more reflective side. It starts slow and simple, before an expert layering and building of instruments ups the ante and pulls you into its immersive world. When “Otherside” comes on, it’s absolutely impossible to skip.
“By the Way” (2002)
With its rhythmic bass and weird, almost nonsensical rhymes, the title track of the band’s 2002 album By the Way is a masterclass in blending different musical elements. It chops and changes, between punchy verses and smooth, melodic choruses, yet somehow works together seamlessly. A true testament to the band’s incredible versatility.
“Snow (Hey Oh)” (2006)
When “Snow (Hey Oh)” came out in 2006, it was a refreshing pivot from the band’s more energetic songs. The intricate guitar riff weaves throughout the song, creating a cruisy, meditative feel. “The more I see, the less I know, the more I’d like to let it go,” sings Kiedis, proving the Chili Peppers’ ability to create complex, emotional music that anyone can relate to.
“Give It Away” (1991)
Few songs embody the raw energy of the Chili Peppers’ quite like “Give It Away.” The funk-infused song is driven by Flea’s impeccable bassline and Kiedis’ rapid-fire vocals. It’s groovy, it’s danceable, it’s the Red Hot Chili Peppers at their best.
“The Zephyr Song” (2002)
“The Zephyr Song” feels like a breath of fresh air in the Chili Peppers’ catalogue. It’s light, ethereal, and shows off the band’s softer side, with a breezy chorus and beautiful background harmonies. “And in this perfect weather, we’ll find a place together,” Kiedis sings. We’re all singing along.
Look, no list could ever fully capture the vast, genre-defying career of the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Their music is like that first unforgettable bite of a spicy taco, drenched in Cholula Hot Sauce – bold, packed with flavour, and always leaving you craving more.
So, why not combine the two? Whip up a spicy pineapple refreshment with Cholula Chipotle Hot Sauce, sit back and fire up your favourite Chili Peppers’ album.
Image Credit: Cholula
El Vocho Shooter
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ tbsp (30 mL) Cholula® Chipotle Hot Sauce
- 10 fresh mint leaves
- 10 fresh coriander leaves
- ½ cup (125 mL) pineapple juice
- ½ cup (125 mL) tequila
Method:
- Puree all ingredients, except tequila, in a blender until smooth. Divide among shot glasses.
- Pour the tequila into another four shot glasses. Serve and enjoy – drink the tequila shot followed by the fiery chaser of blended ingredients.
- Enjoy!
This year, Cholula is sponsoring the Rolling Stone House at SXSW Sydney 2024 for three nights of epic live music, DJ sets, and spicy vibes. With SXSW badge holders gaining priority access, spots are limited. Experience the Cholula Sessions at Rolling Stone House by registering your interest to be on the guest list here.
Doors open Wednesday October 16 at 4.30pm. Visit Rolling Stone House for more info.
