John confirms that he quit Red Hot Chili Peppers
Sorry that this is being posted a bit late, your webmaster is a hibernating tree who sleeps from 1 AM to 1 PM. Many thanks to everyone who was sending the news items while I was zzzing - will have the time to thank everyone at some point this weekend.
In a rather warm and sincere blog entry on Myspace and the official blog, John confirmed that he's left the Red Hot Chili Peppers a year ago in order to focus more on his own work and what art really is for. Here's an excerpt:
To put it simply, my musical interests have led me in a different direction. Upon rejoining, and throughout my time in the band, I was very excited about exploring the musical possibilities inherent in a rock band, and doing so with those people in particular...
Click here or here to read it all. on Myspace, you can also give kudos (and it would be very polite of you to do so).
Now, I would prefer you all to be NICE and say something supportive instead of the filthy, out of your mind stuff that I didn't even manage to censor because I gave up on reading it. I think many of you forgot that this website is about John and his music - regardless of how and with whom he chooses to make it - not about the band. Please, show some social intelligence and common manners.
NEW BLOG ON MYSPACE from JF
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Clarification
When I quit the band, over a year ago, we were on an indefinite hiatus. There was no drama or anger involved, and the other guys were very understanding. They are supportive of my doing whatever makes me happy and that goes both ways.
To put it simply, my musical interests have led me in a different direction. Upon rejoining, and throughout my time in the band, I was very excited about exploring the musical possibilities inherent in a rock band, and doing so with those people in particular. A couple of years ago, I began to feel that same excitement again, but this time it was about making a different kind of music, alone, and being my own engineer.
I really love the band and what we did. I understand and value that my work with them means a lot to many people, but I have to follow my interests. For me, art has never been something done out of a sense of duty. It is something I do because it is really fun, exciting, and interesting. Over the last 12 years, I have changed, as a person and artist, to such a degree that to do further work along the lines I did with the band would be to go against my own nature. There was no choice involved in this decision. I simply have to be what I am, and have to do what I must do.
Sending love and gratitude to you all.
it's now official on john's website:
http://johnfrusciante.com/
i have nothing but respect for a man who has the integrity to acknowledge when things have run their course. john is a serious artist who will not compromise his vision by slipping into self-parody when he knows his heart is no longer in it.
quote from john
When I quit the band, over a year ago, we were on an indefinite hiatus. There was no drama or anger involved, and the other guys were very understanding. They are supportive of my doing whatever makes me happy and that goes both ways.
To put it simply, my musical interests have led me in a different direction. Upon rejoining, and throughout my time in the band, I was very excited about exploring the musical possibilities inherent in a rock band, and doing so with those people in particular. A couple of years ago, I began to feel that same excitement again, but this time it was about making a different kind of music, alone, and being my own engineer.
I really love the band and what we did. I understand and value that my work with them means a lot to many people, but I have to follow my interests. For me, art has never been something done out of a sense of duty. It is something I do because it is really fun, exciting, and interesting. Over the last 12 years, I have changed, as a person and artist, to such a degree that to do further work along the lines I did with the band would be to go against my own nature. There was no choice involved in this decision. I simply have to be what I am, and have to do what I must do.
Sending love and gratitude to you all.
Well its official, the worst thing ever has happened. My dream of seeing the chili peppers will never be realized, because to me they arent the chili peppers anymore. Now im just going to sit and hope that they reunite some day. This is the WORST THING EVER.
I fell like not even playing guitar anymore…
feel*
Y can’t he do both? I thought they were best friends? he said Flea is my musical soulmate…
Again i will say this: if we as fans of JFs music can take anything from him, let it be that we understand where he is coming from. Dont let him being in the RHCP or not being in the RHCP force you to play guitar or not! Dont let it fill your life with grave sadness and regret. If anything, respect John for having so much love for music, not only the sounds but the spirits and the feelings as well, and understand that he has left so that he doesnt continue to do something he does not believe in. He has so much love for music that he is walking away from the biggest thing in his life, the most success he has ever had commercially, and in some fans opinions the greatest music he has ever made quite simply because he doesnt want to continue making music he does not believe in (he is doing this out of love for music and the fans). If anything, dont mope over this, go out and practice. Practice all day. Show your love for John and the Chili Peppers and what they had (AND ARE) by becoming as good as you can on your instrument. Putting as much love and emotion into your playing that you can, AND START YOUR OWN BAND!!! Strive to affect someone else the way that RHCP has affected you. Keep the cycle of musical genius going by playing your F**king heart out to the point where you want to cry because you have finally exposed your inner soul to somebody. Take all the emotional let down some of you feel and put it into your next solo and just F**king play!! Dont get down, start a band!
yeah I was thinkin like that before i read that. I plan on it! Its just I wish John would have said this when he officially quit, not a year later on myspace from some rumor. The chilis just wont be the same again. Hes already done this once, I just dont know why he didnt learn from it.
there we go. now we heard it from himself.
sounds understandable.
just slightly pissed that he left the band over a year ago
and the crowd only hears about it now
especially since we just recently git all excited about them recording again..
why couldn‘t he have made that statement a year ago?
to keep the fans interested for the rest of the hiatus?
Now, the chance of seeing him at the live performance it's almost impossible… I just only hope that he will publish his new solo stuff :/ god… the sendess overtook every little part of my body and soul. i'm sitting here and … don't know. so numb…
"Its just I wish John would have said this when he officially quit, not a year later on myspace from some rumor." – yeah that's the only point I would criticize, him, rhcp or the people around them. A year ago this statement and today there would have been no need for rumors, a "clarification" and disappointed prospects.
Otherwise:
I respect his decission and I'm excited about the way he will go without the peppers and his future musicial products. But yes I'm also sad, just ike the most people here explained it: Nevermore chili peppers concerts with him, no incredible jams with them, no beautiful covers he did in their shows, never here him again playing songs like unter the bridge, scar tissue, californication, don't forget me … and so on which I deeply connect with him as guitarist, maybe never again a meeting with john fans at a chili peppers concert and the question what possibility is going to be left in the next time to see him live peforming music… I will miss that.
http://johnfrusciante.com/
This is one of the happiest items of rock news i have ever heard, I have been waiting for him to leave RHCP, the Empyrean is one of the GREATEST albums of all times!!! His work on the Mars Volta albums is more cutting edge and raw than anything he has done with RHCP post Navarro. John's next album now shows the promise of the greatest thing ever written!! As has been mentioned elsewhere here Josh;s role now in RHCP could bring some life back into the RHCP that has been long lost since One Hot Minute, John needs freedom of expression and now is finally free!!
May the blessings of the season fill everyone with love and light. I am so very thankful that I have heard John, I am thankful for all that he has shared with the world, and even if he doesnt share anything more, I am a better person for having observed and expierenced him and his art.
I understand his reasoning and support him doing whatever makes him the happiest but this is still completely heart breaking.
His message was the best fucking thing! I can't wait for his next album!
I think he did the right thing, because a new peppers album would not have been good if he was not doing the job with all of his heart .. of course it's sad and hard to imagine the peppers without him and I'm gonna miss the concerts and all the joy that goes along with those events very very much, but I totally understand John and it's really no surprise, because he often declared how much he hates the music business and the commercialization of art. With the peppers he had to be a part of it and I think for the pure fact of that he made the right decision.
Melanie
…looing so forward to new solo stuff
I ment "looking", of course
And you also meant meant, I take it? :*
it's comforting to hear this from his 'mouth' (or keyboard). and the fact that he actually quit a year ago explains all the fuss about the 'extended hiatus' and all that stuff. i would guess that the rest of the guys needed this much time to decide on whether to break up or continue (and how to do so). and as they clearly voted for the latter, i can't think of any better 'substitute' for john than josh. i'm curious about how he will look/sound on stage being in the front, and i know that he is a wicked musician so i'm looking forward to their new music as well. true, there won't be the 'chemistry' that has been pushing the band for decades but he's an incomparably better choice than navarro or the others before. it's funny to imagine the two of them sitting down in john's living room and john teaching josh his songs:)
i feel blissful for having seen him live in serbia two years ago (i'm from hungary and they don't come around too often..), and i'm sorry for everyone who could not experience this. even more luckily, i have my own chili peppers tribute band so i'll try to make up for all the gigs we won't see anymore:)
and whoever does replace john in the band, i won't judge them before i hear/see them, so let's wait for that gig in january.
well..we'll never see him on stage ( again ) !
I understand his reasoning, and am really excited to see new music from him, but this was still a really rough blow.
The Peppers will never be the same..
as long as he continues to make solo albums its all good
Bittersweet. Happy for John but the Chili Peppers will never be the same
Alright, I've thought over this a little more, and I'm growing, a little more okay with it. But:
1. The rumors about Josh being his replacement had better be true, because there is no way I can see anyone else replacing John.
2. John had BETTER tour. The only thing I'd think I'd enjoy more than a Peppers show would be John solo, and I feel I really need to see the man who inspired me to pursue music at the level that I have perform at some point..
people, pals and Iva, i know you guys all hate me for how harsh i sometime talk about John…but i'm devestated…guys, right now that i'm typing these words i'm weeping like a baby…so many memories….we all grew up with the awesome foursome and now…oh…:((….i'm so sad…sad….i still love the guy…but why? why?….why?….oh no… i wished it had all been a nightmare that would've ended in another scenario…Iva, didn't you cry to this?…people, i feel terrible…shit….sorry for how i've reacted to this horrible news in the past couple of days…it was all rage due to my deep love four the ever legenedary A-F-J-C RHCP that has lost its J member…as i'm righting these lines, i'm listening to a ballad by Megadeth called Promises (i bet you will all cry if you listen to this tune and in case you're so devestated about John's departure)…it just makes wanna cry non stop…JOHN FRUSCIANTE, JUST WHY??????????:((
Cry? No. I would cry if John was hurt or ill, the same way I would for anyone who has made an impact in my life for this or that reason. He's alive and well and there was a smiley at the end of that post and he sent us love.
I could only cry from happiness seeing that.
And we all have memories. Some people have pretty unique memories, even. That doesn't mean we won't have more memories with him.
I'm going to post an explanation of what I think here – though I don't like sharing my views as they apparently influence people too much – as a big hug to everyone.
Just…why worry? SMILE!
yeah man when u have such passion for something or someone you tend to get angry at feeling like they abandoned you or something… I gotta question though. How come like two months ago John said he was hearing rumors that he had quit the band and he said they were all nonsense..
that was fake!
seems to me you're not up to date
how was it fake? Whats the evidence? just curious
It would help to read each single thing posted on this website a bit more carefully. Click here.
i think roy is referring to the interview john did with the horse chronicles. not the twitter posting you are speaking of. he quoted "two months ago"…….that was around the time of that interview.
nevermind. i wish there was a delete option on this site. i'm sorry.
's OK.
I can’t stop ( addicted the shin dig ! hmm…sorry..i’m nostalgic today ) crying when i listen to Live In Hyde Park ! especially By The Way outro ! scar tissue solo ! they’re more than a band , they’re a legend ! but john is…john
Umm… you seem to forget that some of us 'grew up' with a different RHCP line up. There was this chap Hillel, and I first saw them with Jack Irons as the drummer…. and I did see them with Dave as guitarist on one tour. And we nearly lost Flea a few years ago when he just wasn't feeling it. Each time there has been a change (like when John left the first time) there are always stories that it will be the end of RHCP. But the passion to make music still continues.
And I see that passion to make music even more so with John – either solo, collaborating, or maybe within another band one day. It's not like he's decided to give up music and become an accountant or something
If anything it gives him the freedom to experiment and not have to worry about the impact his projects may have on the RHCP 'reputation'. I'm slightly excited to see what he'll do next, now that he'll have more time to be creative and not spend 2 of every 3 years on tour!
Instead of looking at this as a loss, I see it as new possibilities of good things to come.
It's a really bittersweet moment, but I am breathing easier knowing that this was not a last-minute kind of thing. This has been known for the band for a long enough time for them to figure out how to go onwards, and there is no bad vibes for either them or John. : ) …
Im happy for him and excited to hear what he does next.
is it actually official yet? i know that there was a posting on myspace but it has also been proven that he doesn't use the internet much.. I would have thought that the Chili Peppers would make a formal announcement rather than a myspace post? anyway, it is sad but the Peppers are used to change!
He does use the internet and the same posting is on his blog. You should've read this carefully, as I had linked to both.
yeah I have seen both.. but given the peppers are a multimillion dollar business, i would have thought that the announcement would need to come from them? anyway, i look forward to listening to coming albums.. I have actually seen him a few times down at Venice over the years, would love to say hi but get awe struck!
If you do it the human way, without being awestruck, it would probably work better.
As for this – well, they did confirm it for Flea, which could also mean they were no longer responsible for John. In combo with news on him not going on the site and a happy birthday post being deleted back on 05th March, all of this was very clear, just like a cancer dragging to a metastasis.
yeah I know… next time!
ah well, will se what happens next for the Peppers. Although Josh is a logical fit for the Peppers, I wouldn't say he is a shoe-in for the role.
and why does his twitter account say that he hasn't left and he looks forward to producing more music with the RHCP?
Perhaps I am in a state of denial…. but, just maybe, everyone is jumping the gun?
The Twitter account is fake. I hope he will do something about it.
because “his” twitter account is a fake…
He did the right thing. Absolutely coherent.
This might be why the peppers according to Chad have a lot of piano songs right now,
Josh might not be attempting to replace John as "guitarist" because the chilis are about music, no guitar needed on every song, etc. I almost feel like a lot of songs will be removed from the setlist (But not others.) and other songs will be added that weren't there before. I expect this to be a very good thing for both John and the Chilis : ) : ) … Also I like that John used a smiley in his blog post,
He's turning l33t, I say. I like that.
*whisper* Next step: subscribe to mashable.com or something. *whisper*
yep, i thought the same about the pianos.
I agree that it's a good thing for both. Both of them gotta do what they gotta do. Really looking forward to whatever they release.
Chad plays the piano (see the Funky Monks film), he could be the one playing it here and there. Also, he's recently said it's all in the ideas phase still, not that there will definitely be piano in the new album.
Simmo, the twitter thing was a fake. Yeah, it's a real shame for him to leave the band, but I guess it's for the best. Last night I listened to Venice Queen when I was going to sleep, it was heartbreaking! But his music with the Chili Peppers will always live on!
actually, a good part of this might be that we hear earlier songs and even one hot minute songs live now
Man, this sucks. Hopefully John keeps releasing his own stuff
I entirely agree with you Iva !
We're here to show our love to John's music, whatever in which band he plays or not.
He has made wonderful albums with the Chili Peppers, but now it's time for them to take different ways. We shouldn't tell if the Chili must go on or not. They'll see by themselves what they want to do…
As in concern John's music, it won't change a lot of things, I'm certain he'll go on making wonderful solo albums when HE wants to do it !!!
I've learned one thing in my life that is certain: when we're obliged to do something for whatever reasons, it finally sucks, whereas if you keep doing what you want at the time you want, it's just wonderful… We shouldn't control the way our life goes on, we should only surf on the wave that life make for us… That's all…
Keep that in your mind before criticizing everything…
I am also hoping that since John mentions this: "but this time it was about making a different kind of music, alone, and being my own engineer.", and we have never heard that,
hopefully when he is satisfied to release some of it, I have a feeling it will be really exciting. : ) … The thing he's talking about must be the electronic music Chad refers to on and off in interviews that didn't …really make sense until now. It didn't sound like Chad was just referring to "Speed-dealer Moms" but rather some sorts of albums.
His six albums in six months thing/the empyrean were with him as engineer.
I can totally appreciate his ambition to make his own vision of music come to fruition, but I hope he realizes that if he does, he needs to step it up material-wise in order to avoid what for many is an inevitable slope into irrelevance.
I would rather he make music that has resonance on the same scale as BSSM, Californication,SCWP, and By the Way, than making another album like The Empyrean (which I loved, but just doesn't give the same feeling). I might just be venting my spleen, but I just don't want to see him getting all ego'ed out and start believing everything he does needs to be released. Again I cite Radiohead: their online release , "These Are My Twisted Words," was a meandering bit of arpeggiated ambience very much in their style, but did it even need to be recorded? Released?
This sort of thing happens when there is no pressure, no motivation, no ambition (and no precedent for online album form).
I wish you all the best on your way John!
You're my guitar hero
I'm happy that he took time to write a personal letter.
He took a year¿¿??to write a letter…….
Well i'm not happy with the fact that john has left the band but the chilli's will find the way to keep rocking(as they always do) there's no doubt about it!!!as for john i hope he doesn't regret it ….
I’m sur that john will regret it..in 2 years or 10 years , i dont know , but he will regret his decision…cuz staying all the day at home creatin music is a little borin after a while , he will need to share it with people , with friends , with the best muscians on earth , the chili peppers.
I don't think he ever explicitely said that he won't share anything.
A rain we all needed.
"Be free to yourself…"
"John" You´re FU…ing GAy, good look with your new life…..
Miguel is a retard. Good luck John. I really hope Josh fits in. He better be working on his vocal harmonies too.
totally bummed out over all this. hoping he still releases solo stuff. and i am interested to hear
the new peppers album. feel like it hasnt really hit me yet. loved what the four of them created
so much, this is gonna be hard to take once the band starts promoting and touring (just seeing
them without john isnt gonna feel right)
will keep on supporting john and the band because i love them both so much.
I wish John all the best! That Letter warmed my heart. Its the end of an amazing era…but another one has just begun!
Cant wait for his next album!!!!!!
P.S. The Chili Peppers still rule!!!!!
The Chilis run with John was great, but it was clearly getting redundant and they too (the chilis) had left some of their funky stuff behind…I suppose they both went as far as they could together creatively and I am interested to hear what a new young guitarist brings out in them. I will be seeing them on Jan 29th at the Neil Young Musicares tribute…it will be exciting to see them, but CLEARLY I was really looking forward to hearing John….who knows a few more years apart and then you never know, myabe another reunion…time apart can be good! I want to hear cool, hot stuff from both.
It's cool taht he does what he really want. The music must come from the heart.
but like he says ''…and have to do what I must do…'' , I must see him live, and I don't know how…
Well, now we can start breathing again. It's kind of a relief, mixed with a bit of dissapointment from the part of me that still hoped it weren't true. But I'm not sad or anything, trusting in both Frusciante and Klinghoffer: in John, that he'll still do his thing because that's what he is. In Josh, that even not being comparable, he's gonna be an awesome pepper. Best hopes for both of them.
My recent post {lcdc:5} Niño vudú
John has my whole support ! But I’m really feeling down that he may never tour again even for a very pretty definitely short time, for only a few shows around this poor suffocating, feverish world we are living in ! Please ! This month cannot possibly be so bad !
Though, I must say I’m not looking forward to hearing the new rhcp record… Josh is a great artist as well but it doesn’t feel quite the same… I feel that John had the Peppers becoming part of the long musical history… So, it could not possibly be the same again. But I wish good luck to Josh too, I’m sure he will be doing great…
John’s decision is the right one, for sure, but his plans to leave any kind of touring behind are just too bad because he’s so good at jamming and it feels so good to see him playing and opening his mouth as if he were screaming with his guitar !
I’m really thankful for his message because getting news by proxies is quite disappointing.
So, good luck guys ! And it applies to John, Josh, the Peppers and all of us, because this is much of a change !
OMG!
Hi. Today (12/17) I wrote an essay in school on my favorite musician, and John came up in my head. He is such an inspiration, and to know that in the same i wrote about him, i read online about his departure!!
How Eerie yet awesome.
I wish him luck!
I don't know what to say… I'm from Greece and I love Frusciante's playing… He is my motivation to learn guitar… RHCP never came to Greece, so I didn't have the opportunity to hear them all together… My only hope was after reunion and a tour to Europe… Let's admit that, without John the band was scattered… I believe that he is most important than Antony ( maybe to dramatic, but I could leave with that). Through RHCP songs you could understand the spirit of John…. Red hot chilly peppers are now colorless ( you remember the photo with the helmets).
A strong motive to go to England for studies was a potential concert from RHCP… Who is more appropriate to play "under the bridge" or "Venice queen" and every other song? Now without John, I don't know…. I believe that one day I'll see him playing life on stage, no matter what… Of course I wait for a new album… Take care…
A wise man once said "Don't cry because it happened, smile because it did"
Only good things can come of this, it's fate. Everything happens for a reason.
I'm expecting a bangin' new album from you John. Don't Let me Down!
do you possibly mean "don't cry because it's over, smile because it happened" ?
Gutted but not surprised. I look forward to the peppers work but it'll never be the same. This could mean some ace albums from John though but since Josh is in the peppers does that mean he wont collaborate with John on his albums? because that would be another big loss.
I really respect him, and even though I am crushed that I never will see him with the Chili Peppers (that was supposed to be my graduation present! haha), I will continue to listen to his solo music, and albums like Mother's Milk to remember the awesome stuff he did. I love John so much, and respect him for being sincere.
Ryan
It is absoluteley depressing to hear this news. I simply cannot see how JF cannot continue to make solo records and music and still write and record with RHCP. He and the band could always cut way back on touring schedule to accommodate his solo projects. The RHCP is such an incredible band with incredible energy together that it is very hard to understand JF not wanting to create that with them.
I guess I could understand it more if there was anger and infighting amongst the band members but his blog entry says that wasn't the case. I think JF's decision lets alot of people down. Can't change it but I don't have to like it or agree with it. Very unfortunate. I won't hold a grudge though. I still can look forward to more music in some form.
It's just surreal. I kinda knew all along he wasn't going to come back with RHCP, but the official word is still bad news to me. I appreciate his solo music, but what I loved the most was his work with RHCP.
It's just been so special to me. I'm not extremely upset right now, but I don't think that the idea has sunk into my head yet…
I think he's doing totally the right thing. If your heart's not in something then there's no point. It would be awful to see him staying in the band when he really didn't want to be. I think he's found somewhere he's obviously happy and good luck to him, I look forward to some new stuff. I hope the Chilis carry on with Josh.
a fitting end to a great collaboration. to be totally honest, im happy to be able to sit with those albums and listen away, and then hear anything new john brings out and the new directions he may travel in. im also equally intrigued to hear the chili peppers without him, and would love to see josh will that void on stage left. ive always enjoyed josh's collaborations with people and feel hes a natural successor to john, but would also bring his own style to the role, very much like when john first joined the band….
and i'll just wish everyone seasons greetings and happiness!
nonono, this cannot be
( rhcp will never be the same!!!
(
BUT i wish him the best, really, it's not like he quit making music and it's nice that he wrote to us explaining everything (although this just sucks)
<3
Love to John
It really makes it so much easier to read it all from himself, instead of stupid gossip-like messages.
I hope he makes a shitload of solo records!
Can't wait to hear some new material!
I have to say this didnt really come as a supprise, it was always there in my head during the hiatus that the possibility of John leaving. Its abit of a shame devoted fans were sort of kept in the dark, but on the other hand atleast now we know whats happening. I can only look forward to more John Frusciante albums! and of course Red Hot Chili Pepper albums! In my opinion Josh is the best replacement for John and Im really looking forward to seeing how the dynamics can change. Ive been very lucky indeed to experience the Chili Peppers two years ago in Glasgow. Im a devoted John fan and RHCP fan and I wish John, Anthony, Flea, Chad and Josh all the best!
Its not all bad…
I have really mixed emotions. So so so happy that an announcement has been made. So so so happy that JF and RHCP as a whole are being honest with themselves and their fans…I couldn't think of anything worse than listening to an album where the heart and soul of the music is not complete. I wish them all the best with the new direction of the careers. Hopefully RHCP can carry on without suffering the scrutiny of the music world; last thing I want to hear is this is a repeat of the "Post BSSM / One Hot Minute" Era. I think the guys deserve a chance to show they've grown and have a talented musician in Josh Klinghoffer. I don't want to be selfish and expect JF to release his music for the world to hear – but let's be honest…it would be nice!
I have written a little song this evening that sums up fru for me – it's very ramparts-esque!
http://www.shesgotissues.co.uk/songs/passing-mome...
Holy fucking guitar! That's a wonderful song! IF you have more stuff, please share! You have to
I completely understand him 100%. Art and music, they aren't jobs, and people may consider them jobs where you get paid, but music is something that people live and breath for and for someone like John Frusciante, he doesn't care about the fame or spot on MTV. Music is music and John didn't wanna treat it like a duty. I will still love his music and the Chili Peppers music forever and I will learn to live with his separation from the band. Now lets see if Josh can fill his shoes or I won't feel optimistic about the future of RHCP, but the future for John Frusciante is looking pretty good.
I hope he doesnt make the same mistakes he did once. life wont give him a second chance.
[...] John Frusciante confirma que abandona los Red Hot Chili Peppers [ING] [...]
im happy john took the time to write that message but at the same time sad that an era of my life is over, the sadness will pass with time and i will always have the music he already made to make me feel better. im looking forward to any new solo stuff and i hope he keeps releasing his music. i know he dosent need the money but for his fans it would make us feel better and better. i hope his life continues to move in happy directions because that will show in his music like it always has.
[youtube w18UZefyOos http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w18UZefyOos youtube]
As previously stated I am totally gutted to hear that John has left the RHCP's. However all I truly wish for him is that he is in a good & happy play and that continues to bless the world with his infinite musical talents. (and a selfish wish for myself…that I one day get to see the magic live
). Love & respect to him.
Chels
John should follow his heart and that's the great thing about him, he knows when he's had enough. But I am extremely disappointed, as I became a fan of rhcp and john midway through the Stadium Arcadium tour (back in when I was in 8th grade) and I missed out on seeing them life. I honestly hope he continues to release music and do solo shows.
John has every right to follow his heart and his interests. And while it may not be the most ideal situation for us Chili fans to be in, I think it's important that we respect John for his decision and the reasoning behind it.
John has every right to follow his heart and his interests. And while it may not be the most ideal situation for us Chili fans to be in, I think it's important that we respect John for his decision and the reasoning behind it.
I have such mixed feelings. I feel happy and joyous for John and it was so kind of him to address us and let us know from him what is happening. I am sad at a passing of something that was so special. I am so greatful I saw them as many times as I could, what an opportunity. I am hopeful someday they will play together again. I am very hopeful John will bring his solo music to a music venue near me!! (selfish, can't help it) I just feel so blessed that I have had all the joy I have felt from their music. Its all good!! Thank you John, I love you!! Keep making the music that brings you joy!!!
Ok, I'm sad, just plain sad. I wish RHCP good luck on their next album.
oh johnny we'll always have stadium arcadium.
my reaction to the news is just to listen to this fabulous album what else can i do. it was their last together. and it's awesome.
just glad he has given official word in such a curteous manner. much better than being left in the dark.
so what is there to say except music is amazing and there is more where that came from.
Wow! I have not been on the site in a long time so this comes as somewhat of a shock. It is disappointing, but I understand where he is coming from. The chili peppers has made the best music with him (best to me) but nothing lasts forever. Josh is an amazing guitarists so he will make great music with them and John is focusing on his solo work so you cant go wrong there. I still will be front row center supporting everyone!
i know it's weird to think (again) on the chili peppers without john but i'm happy that this time it was for the right reasons. i wish both sides good luck on their way. i'm sure we will enjoy more new and exciting music for the years to come. i was expecting to a thing like this to happen but didn't expect it so soon. i'm bummed that now my dream to see john live with the chilis won't come true but who knows? maybe john will come back when the band decide to break up and will play with them for the last time or in a reunion show or something. let's stay positive on that.
Just made a facebook group, "RHCP fans who want John Frusciante back", everybody join!
Oh, wow! What a unobtrusively idea!
I'm honest – if I would be a celebrity person, this fan-cult would working on my last nerve!!
I really have no idea what I'm going to do. As much as I love Froosh's solo work, the albums he did with the chilis have inspired me so much throughout the years. I understand he feels the way he does and he might have really outgrown RHCP, but this new was devastating to me. The five albums he did with RHCP are some of my favourite albums of all time. I'm even deluding myself into thinking that this departure is temporary. There's nothing I can do about this but look forward to his future solo albums. I hope John just continues with what he does best.
Great news. He's at his best alone rather that within the constraints of a band. I celebrate his past work with RHCP but really do look forward to future work on his own that continues to grow as his previous solo work has.
Although deeply upset by this news I think it the best for John and the band. It wouldn't be fair to anyone if he stayed with only half is heart in it. I hope the band do stay together as with Josh it will be a completely new style although it is clear he is heavily influenced by Johns playing and who wouldn't be??? I'm just so thankful I have at least seen them live with John. Can't wait for next John album as well as Chili's stuff!!!
Darren
Music, energy, and creativity flow through John's veins. Leaving the band (a full 12 years before he rejoined) was something he felt he had to do, in order to put his life and soul into the beauty that he creates, his music. Like many others have mentioned, his departure gives him the chance to completely focus on his career as a solo artist. He can now focus more fully on developing his music, taking it to new creative heights. Let's remember that this decision was made not because he was tired of playing with the Chili peppers, but because he values music so much, that he would sacrifice anything in order to grow-personally and creatively- as a musician. Instead of drawing judgments, we should pay attention to his own message, and his reasoning behind leaving the band. Any decision he makes in the name of music, is sound, as far as any of us can or should be concerned. I wish nothing but the best for John, and am already excited about his future works. He puts his soul into every note he plays- music radiates from his core.
Well, so it's said right now. He quits the Peppers, and Josh appears to take over. I think it's going to be a strange thing… Peppers without John… Well, I hope best for Josh, and I'll be there, when the Peppers come over to Europe! And, as said by many others, I'm waiting formore solowork…Little poll here!
[polldaddy 2402073 http://answers.polldaddy.com/poll/2402073/ polldaddy]
I don't like the fact that it took a year to say so. Why not sooner, people were looking forward to a new album of reunion. Then now there are all this rumours and a small statement goes out. Music is music there will be new things created as well by chilipeppers as john himself. So who knows what good or not good music will come out of it, we'll see, it's another music adverture…
to sum up: pity but something new will be in the prospect, but it doesn't charm me to say after a year that you've quit… that's my opinion at least….
I was actually nearly in tears when i read this (i'm a fanboy, they were my first true musical love and have helpt me through many,mnay bouts of crap). But at the same time, I'm glad it came from him and not some interview, and I hope Josh is a fitting replacement.
At least this means more solo stuff though, and hopefully solo shows.
If theres one person on the planet who can replace john, its josh klinghoffer. im looking forward in seeing what kind of music they come up together. and also johns upcoming albums and colabs
C x
John, we're gonna miss u so much in all the interviews, you were always funniest of all four… but…
all I want is for you to be happy….:)
if you ever feel like going on tour, come to Sweden! or at least to Europe! or…just go on tour and I'll travel across the universe! … jay guru deva om…
but he's sending love and gratitude <3
we love you John!
……sending love and gratitude without a signature. This man seemed to be very annoyed – comprehensible.
And you seem to dislike both sides. Chill out…please.
Hi Iva!
What do You mean with "both sides"?
O.K., maybe my comments are sarcastic or seemed to be mean and not reasonable. But I have a special intention of acting so and I'm preparing a fair, more detailed comment for posting.
Don't get me wrong – this isn't a verbal attack against Your HP. It's lovely designed and I like it.
My provocation concerned rather to people, whose behaviour has nothing to do with honest respect and acceptance. But I'll try to explain it more detailed.
Greetings from Germany….
Andi, entschuldigung…I think I missread what you wrote. I didn't get "This man seemed to be very annoyed", probably. I wasn't sure what you meant by that, I thought you just assumed John was annoyed because he didn't add his name at the end and that was completely different than your other comment.
Other than that, I absolutely understand the point you made in your other comment. The "fan cult" thing creeps me out and I am always trying to explain people how goofy and creepy that is. Tattoos, cakes, discussing significant others, adding family members and close friends to one's FB to steal private pics we would otherwise never see…all of that makes me incredibly sick to my stomach. But the climate of this sick world is so fucked up (pardon) that people will rather stick to those who do unacceptable things than those who just treat people the way they'd want to be treated themselves.
My recent post Kristina, ovde Maja / Christina, it’s Maya
Huhu Iva!
<<<Andi, entschuldigung…I think I missread what you wrote.>>>
Macht nichts, ist schon O.K.
I'll post my announced detailed opinion referring to the "fan-thing" as soon as possible.
Liebe Grüsse…….Andrea
Simply, times change.
They had amazing albums with John but when you look at it he was always different from the rest of the guys. He didn't enjoy fame, fortune, the life of a rockstar, he was always humble. Now he just wants to create music completely by himself. Yes, he has been doing that for several years now, but this way he won't feel obligated by being in a band. Bands fall apart all the time. Let's just be happy it didn't finish with a fight or something similar. They love him, so they let him go, they let him pursue happiness his own way. Why keep someone if he doesn't feel like being in a band. Hopefully we will be treated to some excellent future John Frusciante albums. If the next one will be just as good as The Empyrean, it will be great.
As for Josh, given that he is a long time collaborator and friend of John's it's obvious that he has learned from him during this time. So it can only mean that he has some elements of John's style. Hopefully he will give his personal touch on the new Red Hot Chili Peppers album.
Cheers everyone.
I'm only sorry that I missed my chance to see John with the peppers. I'll kick myself eternally for missing my chance a couple years back. As for the quitting? Who cares! Both John and RCHP will continue to make great music if their hearts are in it.
People, how do you reflect on Chads latest interview posted on RHCP's official website?…no indication of anything wrong in the band…whay are they still hiding it if it is confirmed by the man himself?…or why did the representatives of RHCP refuse to answer any questions regarding John?…what if some jerk has hacked John's pages and posted that letter?…or what if they are trying their best to get him back and have not given up hope to do so?…this situation is absurd….i know the above mentioned guesstimates of mine seem far off logic, but who knows?…does Chad always dodge whatever that's related to the band or is it really the truth that everything's fine?
Good question… highly doubt it, but good question
My comment is a little bit late, but I can't deny myself that thing:
.
@behnood
"…why are they still hiding it if it is confirmed by the man himself?"
Hiding? Nothing can be hidden, which is already said!
And apart from that – nobody needs to publish or to justify private decisions.
"…or why did the representatives of RHCP refuse to answer any questions regarding John?"
Maybe – because to avoid gossip, rumours and such postings like Yours
The most part of the innumerable questions, asked by people, are intrusive.
"…what if some jerk has hacked John's pages and posted that letter?"
What do You think about people, who are unshakable believing, that Elvis is still alive?
Please, for artists and arts sake – don't walk in such steps.
"…or what if they are trying their best to get him back and have not given up hope to do so?"
Nobody, who loves their friends whole-hearted would act so.
"…does Chad always dodge whatever that's related to the band or is it really the truth that everything's fine?"
Imo, if people are healthy, happy and in balance, then of course everything is fine.
I wish You a happy new year……
Andrea
one of the saddest days of my life
why does everyone talk like hes dead,sure hes left the band but he will continue to make beautiful inspiring music on his own which in my opinion is better than the RHCP stuff.
Found out yesterday it makes me very sad…yesterday was one of the saddest days of my life anyway for personal reasons, there have been times this year when i have felt like johns and rhcp's music was my only companion. They have been through so much together i know its not over yet and i also love josh klinghoffer as a muscian but i may never get to see john which in itself makes me want to cry.
John thank you for the kisses you give me everyday
you have litterly changed my life without the purity of your music the pain of the world would errode my soul.
Thank you
love and all the best for the future
x
I'm completley heart broken by this yes …
But I can't wait to hear Josh in action… Do you think RHCP will play One Hot Minute songs live now?
I'm really sad, too. I always liked to listen to his guitar-soli for example at the DVD "live at slane castle", this was real rock.
Johns solo music makes me thoughtful und often sad, but his music with RHCP was the opposite, this made me happy and his soli there were so great.
But now we will only hear his silent side, there are also nice solo parts, but they are not the same as they are with RHCP.
I like both sides, but i want to hear both, too.
(sry for my bad english)
At least we know he won't end up in drugs again.
Hope to hear more from Fru in the coming months….
Ughhh… Im listening to some B sides, stuff Ive never heard before with John… and getting more and more sad by the minute.. I know you all are like be happy for John I know but still..I miss the band consisting of the best guitarist/songwriter ever.
Well this is a good thing from my perspective. He was the only reason I still remotely cared about the Peppers after By The Way. His contributions were pretty much the only redeeming qualities of Stadium Arcadium. They had grown pretty stale and boring to me. Even the good songs on that album were pretty meh…and there were not a lot of them. The one qualifier here is that this is only a good thing if we get John solo records to fill the void. If he hermits it up totally then I would rather have at least had him in the Peppers to here his contributions there. However, I'm optimistic that won't be the case and we'll get lots of John music in the near future….
I will miss the musical interaction between John and Flea. That is a connection that is extremely rare and special. I grew up listening to RHCP, I learned to play guitar by copying John's style. I can only hope that one day he will miss that chemistry and once again return to the band as the prodigal son.
im alright with john leaving the peppers. im very happy with his newest album. the only thing to get mad about is if john leaves the band forever(which CANT, WONT, SHAN'T happen). you can never say never i don't care how private, shy, recluse, experimental, artsy, collaborate-able or "john" you are in the head. he'll come back, promise. maybe in the next decade, or the first reunion. just as long as he comes back. im not saying this because hes don't this before but you cant just leave forever .
and im curious to see how josh will do. i know he collaborated with frusciante on some of his solo albums, but im to lazy to see which ones at the moment. im rooten for him to do something insane. i have a feeling im gonna like it.
If Josh will definitely be the next lead guitar player, I'm sure that John will participate in some songs for the next RHCP album and that makes me optimistic in these sad days
Can't wait to hear the new material from the band (hopefully they will go back to their funk roots:)
And of course,i hope that John will share more music with us in the future, in interviews he always says that he makes music all the time,but all we got is The Empyrean with only 12 songs…maybe he will repeat the period of 2004/2005 will several albums,who knows…
For those who don't already know, he is the new guitarist for the Red Hot Chili Peppers. I talked to one of his friends and Josh just said "yes" when people came over to ask him about it, and many people did. He also said that everyone is okay and happy with the decision, John, himself, the band
There won't be an official announcement in the near future.
( http://bulletins.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction...
john made the wrong thing. all what he is as a musician because of chili peppers, because of that chemistry between him and flea, chad and anthony. i heard his solo albums and they great but his solo music will never be the same good as music that they did in last 10 years, and also we will not see any great concerts of chili peppers. i am really disappointed.
Chad said on an interview ( august i think )
“I’ll be honest: I haven’t seen John, but Flea had a sit-down with him recently, and from what I understand it was very positive”
and then john says that he left the bad one year ago ? dont understand…
just because it was postive didn't mean that he was still in the band.
this "positive" stuff is often used in order to beat around the bush in a gentle way
i don't know why everyone is sad, we should all be very happy that John isn't in the state of mind he was prior to leaving the band last time… Empyrean is an epic album, and Mr.F has proven on every attempt that he can produce music that is so varied that it sounds fresh. honestly, if John didn't feel as though he could recreate this in a band scenario then he has done the right thing. Stadium Arcadium has its moments but gosh.. it doesnt touch any Chili album on the right level, JF was the driving force behind a lot of material featured on that attempt… which is a mixed bag. On one hand, it had some brilliant instrumentals, lyrics which captured the emotions of the band… but on the other hand… it wasnt even on par with One Hot Minute. Yet, John, consistently demonstrates with his solo releases that he is a genius in his own right. I love the Chilis, i've seen them nine or so times now and loved their energy, im disappointed, sure, that goes without saying, but guys… John sounds peaceful, God knows the Chilis needed that.
Great news. John is fantastic solo and the chilis have become parodies of themselves. I’ve become sick of seeing that tatooed orangutang Anthony pretending to be twenty years old, making stupid faces and playing dress up in their videos. I remember seeing John solo in concert in NYC in the ’90s. It was pure emotion. RHCP has been baking in the Cali sun for too long. Hurray for non-commodified music! RIP chilis if they release more rubbish like the Navarro stuff.
Im just brainstormin’ on this, but back in ’92 he quit because of drugs and heroin and all that shit, right? During Californication, By the Way, and the making of Stadium Arcadium he was stone cold sober.. ok now my point is it just me or doesnt this site even say hes back to smoking weed and drinkin wine alot?? I hope hes not going down that road again. Not dissing him because like many of you out there Im his biggest fan.
First of all good luck John
and Red Hot Chili Peppers will be the same as before…I hope thath John will be happy
John —–YOU ARE THE BEST—-
<3 I wish all the best to John, the RHCP and the new guitarist and i look forward to hearing any gifts of musical pleasures they choose to release. For many years they have been making their magical music for many listeners and creating memories for many people, Certain songs for me bring back beautiful memories and just hearing the song can remind me of times, places and people which otherwise could be forgotten and i can not thank them all enough for that.<3
We will never again hear Johns falcetto voice backing up anthony kiedis's crazy vocals. At least not live, nor in any new album of the peppers. Just something to think about. I'm excited to hear what John is going to bring to us in his new albums (hopefully).
WTF?? I just heard on the radio that he was recording with them…Maybe they were uninformed?
There is no Red Hot Chili Peppers without Frusciante. Their great stuff is every song with frusciante in it because its alot of his work and talent. To fool everyone and get everyone excited into thinking they all were going to make a new album was ridiculous…what a better way to send "love and gratitude" . JF's solo stuff is great, but RHCP as a group playing together is unbeatable. RHCP is no longer RHCP, and will never be as long as John wants to be "individual"…..just because your in a band doesnt take away individuality….RIP RHCP
My recent post Manimal Vinyl announce their Bowie tribute – JF’s in it, too. And it’s for children!
john just hold a concert somewhere, anywhere in the country…ill fly to you.
Let’s be serious…..John Frusciante’s talent should never be limited.I personally believe he over exhurted his self with the chilli peppers and remember this is the second time he has left the band.I believe they did give him more experimental freedom and chances to be more heard,But unfortunately I really don’t see anything amazing or original coming from the RHCP.in the future. Don’t get me wrong the RHCP are great but have become very repetative.I love what John’s doing solo and have been a fan since his music appeared in Perry Farrell’s movie Gift in 1990 then John F’s first release Niandra La des and usually just a t-shirt was released.Every record to follow grew more and more never dissapointing to the ear with experimental guitar genius.Then later the collaboration with Josh Klinghoffer took to even higher levels which brings me to John F’s other band Ataxia.Which Josh Klinghoffer is a member of.If you havnt heard it you must.I know John F has also been playing with The Mars Volta a lot.I know for sure he is on the 3 last releases.The Mars volta lists John F as a member.So possibly he is now a permanent player in The Mars Volta.I havn’t heard a new Ataxia record in a couple yrs but there great and I look forward to a new release.There is tons of john Frusciante music out there I think everyone who’s a fan should really dig for this stuff .He started releasing music in th early 90′s. Good luck searching for his stuff I truly hope you get some, his music to me is addictive and a way of life. Feeling his soul pour from his voice and those 6 strings is never a let down. He really gets inside you whether a guitar player musician or just a music lover….. GOOD LUCK & I hope you found this helpfull. Jai Diablo
Music has nothing to do with being marketable and accepted by the masses. If John connected with one shape in his soul and produced music from it, and then that connection moved just one person, he would be happy with that. Music is not a car or a house or an Ipod. Music is moving people and changing lives. You are right that musicians want people to connect to their music. The mindless masses buying your album just because its easy for them to digest is NOT a connection. It is a marketing managers dream… not a musicians.