Producer calls Anthony Kiedis ‘tone-deaf’ in shocking Red Hot Chili Peppers reveal
Producer Michael Beinhorn has made bold claims about Red Hot Chili Peppers frontman Anthony Kiedis, calling him 'tone-deaf'. Beinhorn worked closely with the band during their early years, shaping two key albums in the late 1980s. His comments come as the band’s classic lineup continues to make headlines with new music and solo projects.
Beinhorn first collaborated with the Red Hot Chili Peppers on 1987’s The Uplift Mofo Party Plan and later on 1989’s Mother’s Milk. He revealed that Kiedis struggled with pitch, particularly on the latter album. One track, Knock Me Down, even featured guitarist John Frusciante on lead vocals instead of Kiedis because of its melodic demands.
Kiedis reportedly had a strong reaction to the finished guitar work on Mother’s Milk. Beinhorn recalled the singer ‘freaking out’ when he first heard the recordings. Despite early challenges, the band’s classic lineup—Kiedis, Flea, Frusciante, and Chad Smith—reunited decades later for 2022’s Unlimited Love and Return Of The Dream Canteen. Meanwhile, bassist Flea has stepped into the spotlight with his debut solo album, Honora. The release comes alongside a world tour, with dates scheduled across North America, the UK, and Europe.
Beinhorn’s remarks shed light on the band’s creative struggles in their formative years. Today, the Red Hot Chili Peppers remain active, with recent albums and Flea’s solo venture keeping their legacy alive. The producer’s candid comments add another layer to the band’s long and evolving story.
