Red Hot Chili Peppers is an American rock band formed in Los Angeles in the early 1980s around Anthony Kiedis, Flea, Hillel Slovak and Jack Irons. The group developed an instantly recognizable sound blending funk rock, alternative rock, punk and psychedelic influences, driven by Flea’s expressive bass playing and a powerful live energy. With albums such as Blood Sugar Sex Magik, Californication and By the Way, Red Hot Chili Peppers became one of the most popular and influential bands in modern alternative rock.