Flea’s Funkiest Bass Line (that you’ve probably never heard)

[@devinebass]

*PLEASE READ* - It's come to our attention that there are some commenters on our videos who are trying to scam our subscribers with offers of free gifts and message requests. None of these comments are official or from us. We will never reach out via the comments of a social media channel. We're doing our best to remove the comments and flag the accounts in question!

[@FunkadelicFlea]

So I don't get a gift? No free Stenback or Fodera for me? 😢😢😢

[@mortonfrankfire5400]

12:39 hey! Have you got the preset/patch details for the HX stomp? I’d love that as I can’t quite get it myself.

[@juansejuansejuanse]

There's actually a interview of Anthony and John where they are told that Funky Monks is not a "relevant song". John's reaction is priceless kzbin.info/www/bejne/gmKmi6d9f9V_Zq8

[@CC-wf2qb]

Like you trying to scam people to watch this video with thta title then?

[@Bob-of-Zoid]

I was on the Blood Sugar Sex Magik tour. Daaaaaaaaang!

[@amberblair8379]

The whole Blood, Sugar, Sex, Magik is full of funky bass lines!!

[@nicholasskridla2475]

THEY"RRRRRRE GREAAAAT!!!! - Tony The Tiger

[@robertsilverwhite2277]

You're jamn right!!! Loved it from the jump

[@mauroclaypool1613]

The whole album bro!

[@simeonorive145]

I started playing bass in 1989 punk inspired but with a deep rooted love of Funk and Blues when this Album came out it rearranged my musical mind.

[@ruffryder13]

This is an album to not just be listened to but studied as a master class. Some albums release...and some drop...like a bomb

[@christianfreimann1674]

WHO didn‘t know this „hidden“ track?! It’s the best part of it 🥰

[@JJ_5289]

I mean the song wasn't one of their radio hits, but I feel like everbody who knows the full album likes funky monkey monks. Great song from one of the all time great albums.

[@andybaxter4442]

I always felt like Funky Monks was the favorite track of anyone who owned the BSSM album. However, the kids genuinely don't listen to music like that anymore, the Spotify algorithm clearly isn't pushing this particular track.

[@OrlandoOntiveros]

This record is perfect from beginning to end. Wouldn't call it a Hidden track since it's in the middle, and who would stop any of these songs from playing? I played the whole CD every time

[@ethixhiggins5059]

The righteous and the wicked is a better hidden 5 string riff by him I feel like

[@prince00thieves60]

What I thought lol

[@neilmurphy7594]

The entire album is a masterpiece. The Righteous and the Wicked is pretty massive too, especially the unison lines with John

[@abacquias]

And Sir Psycho Sexy, and Mellowship Slinky in B maj... so many killer groove lines on that album! The best RHCP, to my mind ; the funkiest, at least.

[@robertobohm5328]

@@abacquias totally agreed, my most listened vinyl for sure

[@deegees73]

Agreed. Best song on the album and it’s a real pity they never played it live.

[@Mrflippyfloop]

That whole album is an education in modern funk bass.

[@Panvil]

Guys, you're such a great duo. Scott was great on his own, but man.. this format is awesome. Much bass love

[@graceybfrg]

Soo true

[@A_Maggot]

The non stop knee touching is a bit awkward, otherwise enjoying the series.

[@gameover313]

Still can not believe that they played this gem only 3 times live so far. One of their greatest songs.

[@devinebass]

🔥🔥🔥

[@guillermodelnoche]

I played the second bass line in the intro at a band audition in the 90’s and everyone freaked. I didn’t admit where it came from. I also used the bass line to the shower scene from Debbie Does Dallas… it’s an overlooked funk gem.

[@insaneconqueror5421]

After some extensive research on the DDD bassline, I agree it is quite a gem.

[@Yomommahouse6801]

I never even noticed the bass line in DDD, must have been distracted.

[@guillermodelnoche]

@@Yomommahouse6801 things you notice the 23rd viewing….

[@Yomommahouse6801]

@@guillermodelnoche 😂

[@HonchoHundo]

that reminds me how I played Sebastian Bachs "Bouree" by Jethro Tull on bass for my 12th grade music exam and told my teacher I made it and got the highest grade in class lol

[@danielhartwig3150]

Funky Monks outro is unbelievable. The whole album is the best stuff RHCP ever did.

[@devinebass]

🔥🔥🔥

[@goopxiv]

the whole song is unbelievable.

[@goopxiv]

the whole album is unbelievable!!

[@jcsk8]

BSSM is a MANDATORY album for bass players. Being listening and playing it since tthe 90´s. Love it!

[@BladeV8]

Here to echo how much I love having the two of you together in a studio - absolutely fantastic chemistry and dynamic!

[@BriansKitchen]

I remember hearing this for the first time when I was 12 and being so amazed by how funky Flea is. He made me want to play bass. You guys make me so happy and proud to be a bassist! There isn't a cooler jnstrument. Period.

[@noeespinosa1929]

Flea said in an 90s article he had been listening to a lot of George Porter Jr. when he recorded the bass line. Yes it’s a horn line but is with the tradition of some good ol New Orleans Funk! I love it!!

[@bassimprovjams3772]

The fact that Scott is letting Ian get some luv from the WAL is so awesome!! You two are the best duo ever!! I didn’t know Flea played a 5er !! I wish he still played the Stingrays! That’s the Tone rite there!

[@martinheath5947]

Sounds more like a single coil bridge pickup to my ears

[@locksmithdb5987]

On the documentary "funky monks" (the making and recording of blood sugar sex magic) flea and John were doing an interview and the critic didn't like the song "funky monks"...John said said "wait! You don't like the outro where flea plays that amazing bass line!!??"

[@mattc8648]

“You didn’t like the fucking bassline at the end? BA DOo BaDOO Boo BOo” - John Frusciante, 1991, Boat in Amsterdam 😂

[@PerezBroz-p5o]

I’m so glad you guys are feeling how amazing this is the track finally getting the recognition it deserves I love the appreciation energy here I have no one to share this stuff with and you guys get it!

[@davidarbour6033]

Blood sugar sex magic is my favorite album of all time. So happy that you bring up this riff

[@mvinge]

"Never heard" bassline from one of the greatest albums ever. Lol. Every song is perfect on that album. But seriously love the channel. However, imo the chorus of "If you have to ask" is hands down the the funkiest bass line on RHCP's BSSM

[@IanMartinAllison]

LOVE that tune

[@oluwatobiadeleke4091]

Clicking this video and the first thing I see in Scott and Ian "headbanging" and vibing to the song... PRICELESS😆

[@BARTFUNKBASS]

I put this album next to Parliament's "Mothership Connection" and James Brown's "Love, Power, Peace". It's the funkiest!

[@CliffHairston]

On release day I went out and bought this. I had been playing for about 4 years by then and I listened to the whole album all the way through. This song, Righteous and the Wicked, Mellowship Slinky, and Sir Psycho Sexy are the songs that had me woodshedding that very night. To this day that Funky Monks “solo” at the end is one of the first things I’ll play on a bass to test how easy playing the neck is. I can’t believe it’s been 32 years now so thanks for reminding me how old I’m getting lol :)

[@alexanderlyon]

This channel is good enough to be a 1/2-hour network TV show now.

[@roddydykes7053]

Network TV is dying, internet is forever

[@AdrianSanabria]

I learned to play bass off this album! I was so thrilled when Ian did a deep dive on this whole record a little while back.

[@glitchxero4687]

My friend and I listened to this album on repeat all day long, pretty much the entirely of the summer of '94. It's probably my favorite album of all time, so many bangers. Flea became my first bass inspiration some 2 or 3 years before I even picked up my first bass. Such an aggressive style, but so damn funky.

[@shanes_bs2659]

That is such a juicy bass track! I bought this CD when it came out in 91 and have worshiped it ever since.

[@sky-hakala]

"the enemy of the groove is discomfort" man that one resonated with me! what a wonderful quote!

[@m.sandor5556]

great video guys, as always

[@VictorMoraVP]

I've listened to this song 1000 times and never realized how amazing this bass line was. My fault not to paying attention to it. Thanks for this video!!

[@mattsimons8311]

So glad you guys broke this down. It's my single most favourite bassline ever, so great to see it getting the respect it deserves!

[@marcthiele]

You two are right. Easily one of the best albums and an incredible bass line.

[@devinebass]

🔥🔥🔥

[@User-jk8wq]

I cant listen to 2:29 without immediately thinking about John Frusciante in the boat interview. “WAIT A SECOND HERE...!”

[@MaxDL]

Yes, this is the TOP bass line ever! I played it with my band in 1999 and it gave us that FEEL that called groove.

[@BluzBazz]

This groove falls under my fingers almost every time I'm procrastinating practice. It's so much fun to play, and just naturally makes me happy.

[@myvids3115]

I am a drummer and free time lowest level acoustic guitar player. You give me so much joy with your bass videos. I really feel to hopp on that groovy fourstring. 😊 So nice.

[@Yomommahouse6801]

Matching your hat to your bass, boss level move Scott.

[@hayleyh4591]

You guys are so fun :)

[@WhereTheBASShasNoName]

Scott, Ian, I just woke up so top of the morning fellas. Dudes, like, WHAT?!?! I literally paused the video to comment. No I have not heard this song, but OH ME GOODNESS! That opening riff just put me on pause in a good way

[@EZrebel]

It’s funnet how this was great because of Scott’s energy and enthusiasm… and now with Ian added in it’s 1+1 = 11. Because you to “go to 11” 💪 love how you enjoy exploring, explaining and enjoying this! Thanks for sharing your knowledge and insights.

[@schm4704]

I am now officially at the age where people "discover" the music I've been listening to all my life. *sigh*

[@roddydykes7053]

I feel that way sometimes but then I just remind myself I was at that point at one time too

[@JackBealeGuitar]

Great, always my favourite part of the album. The chorus part to "if you have to ask", is another amazing line

[@maximummatt73]

You have to do stank face to play that part correctly

[@halkite]

I've always thought it sounds like John is playing horn section stabs. Absolutely love this part of the song, respect to you guys for focusing on it.

[@Aidan.w]

In a 1991 interview, John Frusciante is so utterly shocked that the interviewer didn't like this song that he interrupts Keidis and proceeds to sing the bassline like a little kid. Thats when you know you've got a good one.

[@roddydykes7053]

I watch that interesting little interview all the time

[@acsaiyanbalce4610]

Geez, I listen to this hidden track like it was the most famous track ever since the 90’s. This is what got me started playing bass.. thanks Flea…

[@mastod0n1]

I've never considered the outro as a "hidden track"

[@QbaGregor]

Perfect analysis, awesome groovy groove! 🤘🤘

[@andreadevecchi4462]

This outro is my ringtone for 10 years. Love it so much 👍

[@TarekWriter]

Just from the title and album, I knew exactly what line you were talking about.. Been playing this randomly on bass for a decade. Great line that is too short. Just finished the video. Great breakdown.

[@diegofloor]

I haven't met a single bass player who didn't start playing because if Flea. Definitely the most influential bass player of all time. I say this because it's so weird we don't see more videos like this!

[@carlkermode899]

You know you're getting old when intrinsic parts of your youth become new knowledge to be handed down on KZbin videos.

[@diegoebustamante]

This video was so fun to watch! Seriously, I cannot get enough of this bassline. It's nice to see it get the attention it finally deserves

[@BrickSomething]

Oh man…making me feel super old if we’re talking about Funky Monks as part of a bygone era. Oh wait…I am old. Ha. I was 14 going on 15, and had been playing bass for 4 months when I got that documentary you’re showing for Xmas on VHS. I wore that thing out learning this track and others. It was also the first time we’d hear the sentimental bass line for “Soul to Squeeze” which wouldn’t be released for a good year or so as a b-side, then blow up when it was on the Coneheads soundtrack. That album (and documentary) taught me so much about playing bass.

[@Moises505130]

I've been wanting to learn this for years!!

[@chivobass]

How have you 2 mofos not covered the end of AFTERLIFE yet off the latest rhcp release? It's loaded with great bass, and the outro chords will cave your face in. I would like to see a video of both of you figuring out the end lol. Was super fun for me

[@connorlarkinbass]

thank you for making this! I always thought this was one of the most underrated chili peppers songs ever! this end section is without a doubt one of my favorite things to listen to and show people!

[@TKD4Free]

When I saw the title I had a feeling it was this song! Threw up my hands when I heard the first note. Also the lead in to that funky outdo is perfect with Chad’s fill followed by a second of silence.

[@nickgordon8909]

I don’t think Flea gets enough credit for how innovative some of his baselines are.. nice example here

[@discobassgroove]

What a great dissection of this line, really great insight and playing.

[@ErixSamson]

That Wal is a beast!!!!!!!!!

[@jaimeflor4181]

I’m totally familiar w/ this, but it’s nice to hear you 2 analyze it with music theory. Simply put, it sounds like he’s doing a fill before landing on what should be the root note typically played first. BSSM is definitely 1 of my favorite albums and I think 1 of the first I had on 💿 CD.

[@SteveWeltman]

Some of the best music RHCP ever recorded was on that album. That extended bass funk track was the reason I bought the CD in 1992. Pretty amazing transcription work on this Easter egg. Great post and fun to watch two super talented bassists in their working processes. I learned a lot.

[@IanMartinAllison]

Cheers Steve!

[@samod7550]

BSSM was the album that inspired me to start playing bass when I was 16. 9 years later, it's still a linchpin source of reference and inspiration for my bass playing. I'm so glad someone is finally doing a deep dive on Flea's funky bass beyond the mainstream hits, it really shows off just how fking funky he is.

[@chinatosinthiti3076]

What good timing that you guys brought this song up! I started playing bass in high school and thought this song and this album was already a masterpiece, but my musical comprehension wasn't so developed, fast forward almost 20 years I've been playing mostly metal and developed my understanding and feelings about music much more. Until few months ago I watched Cory Wong sketches so I decided hmmm let's go back to re-explore funk and this RHCP album again, I got mind blown by this track once again! Thank you for showcasing this.

[@TheBenjaminBrowning]

I loved the depth you guys went into breaking down this part of funky monks. I wish there was a guitar channel that would do the same as this

[@rgw2012]

OMG Ian, that Wal bass was the star of the show for me, my holy grail that I will make sure I get one day......also really enjoyed the content by the way 😁

[@Aeronaut1975]

I've been saying that this is one of the coolest and funkiest bass riffs for over 30yrs, since the day it was released. This is probably their best all around album. I would also highly reccomend the 2 preceeding albums "The Uplift Mofo Party Plan" and "Mother's Milk".

[@sitonka303]

This is amazing, to see you two absolutely loving one of my fav bass parts by my fave bass player. Really inspiring. I started playing bass because of blood sugar sex magic and bought the book. I still after nearly 30 years haven't mastered it all. Love it. SBL is ace

[@rickcouture8760]

Such a great album! I'd love to hear a breakdown of stuff off One Hot Minute. Not everyone's favourite RHCP albums but I think Navaro's playing opened up a different side of Flea's playing. There's some cool melodic stuff scattered throughout.

[@Beassagra]

I had the cassette tape of this album my cousin gave me as a gift. It’s the album with many songs that you would want to listen each from the first to the last song. Best bang for your buck album.

[@omagodosgraves]

BEST CHANNEL ON KZbin!!!!! FUN AND EDUCATIONAL AT THE SAME TIME

[@enhabeer]

I have the tab book since many years and it is still one of my favorites. So funky ! Many bass riffs aren’t so difficult and are so fun to play !

[@ericparker2337]

Love watching your videos. These are amazing!

[@pmxevious]

@Ian would love to see you break down Geddy's funky Wal-ly goodness in The Big Money!

[@IanMartinAllison]

I’d love to!

[@pmxevious]

@@IanMartinAllison I'll be getting a Mark i next week I've dreamed of one for soooo many years

[@dabaws1938]

Hey Scott and Ian! I love your breakdowns! It would be cool to see you take a look at the herbaliser, they got some mean basslines! Rock on!

[@devinebass]

Sounds like fun!

[@natron1908]

Great idea to learn the entire album.

[@martindewhurst2485]

I’ve know about Flea being a horn player for a long time. But how it informs his bass playing has never been apparent to me until this video. One of my favourite bass lines of his, Special Secret Song Inside, seems to be a case in point

[@ThomasDanzberg]

Keep up this format! Great to watch, having fun and learning at the same time. Cheers from Brazil!

[@YA.n.AMusic]

you should see the Dutch interview, where John sings this bassline, it's hilarious

[@GoodGod93]

Great video! Man I really have to pay more attention to flea!!

[@dfeelz1488]

What I've always loved about the chillies was that each member knew their place and also how to play to enhance eachother. Chad and Frusciante made Flea pop!

[@andrewpappas9311]

I still remember hearing this bass line for the first time in the video you guys did for the Bass Albums That Changed the World for BSSM, definitely one of Flea's coolest parts

[@joeltudor521966]

Blood Sugar Sex Magik The Greatest RHCP Record Ever!!! Basswise it's outstanding, there're so many funk deep and groovy basslines all over the tracks. This one is really FUNKY!!! Check also the bass at minute 2:35, they go right here to B for the first time in this track and then it drops to low C...the 5th string of the Stigray really roars out!!!

[@devinebass]

It's definitely right up there!! So much to like about Flea's work on that album!!

[@nightly522]

Scott, think you are a fantastic teacher and commentator (and bass player). Thank you for creating a fantastic spot on KZbin for us bass players! Genuine thanks!

[@devinebass]

Appreciate you checking out the channel! 🧡

[@douglasdog1]

I always thought the bass line was the song, not hidden. That album is a front to back listen of incredible lines, riffs and beats.

[@andrewpinner3181]

Thanks guys, l've always loved this nugget at the end of the track. That tone would be one of my 'go to's' for sure ! The bass grannies finale - love it !

[@RastaSaiyaman]

"Funky monks" is an underappreciated song indeed, but I think that ignoring the main bass line which is one of the very few times where he used a low B string is selling this song short.

[@markfredericks9892]

This was fun to follow along with. I always loved that hidden jam!

[@insidejazzguitar8112]

Instead of the root starting on beat 3, could it be a pick up to the B note coming in on the 1?

[@Testing-123]

I did this same obsessive deep dive in 1992 ... love this tune

[@ricardodubatti657]

My first guess was "Salute to Kareem", a demo included as a bonus track in some reissues of Mother's Milk. Not so subtle as this section of "Funky Monks", but quite wild and funky.

[@marysanchez4789]

Awesome video!. I remember being in awe to that bass line and was truly the first time I knew I had to learn to play bass🙏 Flea used Mesa Boggie Cabs for all that era and BSSM was recorded with Wal and Stingray 5 string bass

[@joannalewis5279]

Omg. I can't hum while holding my nose! Old person here. This was the highlight of the album for me when I was a kid. So much 😊

[@flucazade]

the outro to Funky Monks was a line that I just spend days playing, it sounds amazing, it's pretty easy and a nice exercise all in one.

[@ewwitsantonio]

This (part of the) song was actually my favorite RHCP song for a long time! My first CD at age 6 or 7 or so was RHCP BSSM... (because my older cousin accidentally left it at my parent's house and I stumbled across it). Pretty sure this album helped steer me into funk music in general as I tried to figure out what influenced this era of RHCP. Great stuff

[@adamodimattia]

You guys so funny :) really the humour is what got me hooked to this channel years ago.

[@jermaine8977]

I made that last part my ringtone years ago. Love it.

[@XanBcoo]

I made exactly the same "UHGH!" noise that Scott did at 7:27 in reaction to that second phrase. Surely one is just simply born to play bass

[@Kenneyty]

The album that turned me into a bass player. That outro is just one of those things my fingers just start doing automatically whenever I pick up a bass. So. Freaking. Good.

[@yogiblair22]

As soon as I read the title I knew funky monks would be the call. Certain life a groove to be reckoned with

[@devinebass]

Straight up 🔥🔥🔥

[@julbarrier]

Also the first 'break' is amazing