After nearly five decades anchoring the rhythm section for one of the world’s biggest rock bands, Flea is stepping into the spotlight on his own terms. The Red Hot Chili Peppers bassist has announced plans to release his debut solo album in 2026 via Nonesuch Records.
While best known for his slap-bass technique, the upcoming project sees the musician returning to his first musical love: the trumpet. For this venture, Flea has assembled a “dream band” of modern jazz visionaries to explore new sonic territories. To introduce the project, he has released the lead single, “A Plea”, which is available for streaming today.
The track, written and performed by Flea, features him on electric bass, vocals, and trumpet. It serves as a call for connection, urging listeners to “build a bridge, shine a light, make something beautiful and see somebody, give it to somebody.”
Describing the thematic weight of the song, Flea explained that the lyrics reflect a desire to transcend the divisiveness currently plaguing society.
“Yearning for a place beyond, a place of love, for me to speak my mind and be myself. I’m always just trying to be myself,” Flea said in a statement. “I don’t care about the act of politics. I think there is a much more transcendent place above it where there’s discourse to be had that can actually help humanity, and actually help us all to live harmoniously and productively in a way that’s healthy for the world. There’s a place where we meet, and it’s love.”
The single features a robust lineup of collaborators, including double bassist Anna Butterss, guitarist Jeff Parker, drummer Deantoni Parks, percussionist Mauro Refosco, alto flutist Rickey Washington, and trombonist Vikram Devasthali. Vocal support is provided by Chris Warren and the track’s producer, Josh Johnson, who also contributes on alto saxophone.
Accompanying the music is a new video directed by Los Angeles-based photographer and filmmaker Clara Balzary, featuring choreography by Sadie Wilking.
Born Michael Peter Balzary, Flea has sold over 80 million records as a founding member of Red Hot Chili Peppers. Beyond his rock career, he has built an extensive resume that includes collaborations with Tom Waits and Johnny Cash, acting roles in films such as “The Big Lebowski” and “Baby Driver,” and the publication of his 2019 memoir, “Ac*d For The Children.” In 2001, he co-founded the Silverlake Conservatory of Music, a non-profit dedicated to music education.
Further details regarding the solo album are expected to be revealed in early 2026.
Ogorthul: Immersed in the bone-shattering world of death metal and beyond. I’m here to excavate the latest news, reviews, and interviews from the extreme metal scene for you.
