Michael Peter Balzary (born October 16, 1962 in Melbourne, Australia), better known by his nickname/stage name Flea, is an Australian-American bassist for the alternative rock/funk rock band Red Hot Chili Peppers and a frequent session musician for other music acts. He has also acted in a number of movies.
While playing in Anthym, Flea's exceptional bass skills attracted attention from outside the band. In 1982, Flea received an offer to become the new bass player for Fear, an aggressive punk band from Los Angeles. He accepted the offer, playing for a short period with both bands.
In 1983, Flea, Kiedis, Slovak, and Irons formed the Red Hot Chili Peppers. They were signed with EMI within 6 months. Flea left Fear to concentrate on working with the Chili Peppers. Balzary also turned down an offer to play in the post-Sex Pistols band Public Image Ltd. with his longtime idol, John Lydon, as he preferred to stay with his friends.
Flea has aided the careers of several prominent musicians, most notably Jewel. In 1993, Flea met the unknown local artist, after he saw her perform at a local cafe. He went back to her van where she was currently living, where she sang a few of her songs. He described her singing voice as being "beautiful" and "breathtaking". Two years after this encounter Jewel was signed to Atlantic Records and released her diamond record, Pieces of You. Flea also helped establish the non-profit Silverlake Conservatory in 2001 and mentors young musicians in that program.
Flea is the only member that has never left or been kicked out of the Red Hot Chili Peppers. However, he has currently gone on a break from the band to teach music at his Silverlake Conservatory of Music.
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Michael Peter Balzary homepage
Flea Bass Solo w/ Chad
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