In an LA strip club over 34 years ago, donning only a strategic sock, an explosive career was initiated nude and unruly. With a reputation of breaking down musical barriers with such originality and unique concoction of punk-rock, funk and psychedelia, the Red Hot Chili Peppers are now esteemed veterans of rock and roll.

Anthony Kiedis and bassist Michael ‘Flea’ Balzary began their turbulent relationship at high school. But early struggles led to tepid reviews for their debut The Red Hot Chili Peppers. Instant success, however, was not responsible for this bare-chested band’s enduring popularity. A fusion of sexed-up, punk funk sound with a profound songwriting style in 91’s BloodSugarSexMagik granted them their first commercial triumph. Suddenly they had unlocked a new mainstream platform.

The Chilis posed as counterculture messengers; they explored the emotional themes of relationships, addiction and Kiedis’s troubled life. The award winning release of 99’s Californiacation cemented alt-rock in pop culture. With hits such as ‘By The Way’ released in the 00s on top of earning multiple Grammy for their success in rock music, the greying Californian punks shows no signs of slowing down. These images retell their climb to their throne and depict their continual reign.