Chad Smith began drumming at the age of seven, inspired by bands like Rush, the Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd, and Led Zeppelin. Smith’s musical career took off in December 1988 when joining the Red Hot Chili Peppers. With the band, Smith has recorded ten albums, marking a remarkable drummer’s position in the music industry. The diverse portfolio also includes collaborations with various artists including Glenn Hughes, Johnny Cash, John Fogerty, Jennifer Nettles, Kid Rock, Jake Bugg, and many more. Smith’s talent was recognized by Spin magazine in 2013 when ranked at number 91 on the “100 Greatest Drummers of Alternative Music” list.
Smith is also the drummer of the hard rock supergroup, Chickenfoot, and the all-instrumental outfit Chad Smith’s Bombastic Meatbats, formed in 2007. He was briefly a member of Eddie Vedder’s backing band, The Earthling. He worked with the Check on the album “Taking the Long Way,” which won five Grammy Awards in 2007. He also helped co-write and perform on the children’s album, “Rhythm Train,” as well as Ozzy Osbourne’s album, “Ordinary Man.”
Smith is also known for charity work, especially with young musicians. He is an active supporter of non-profit organizations including Surfer’s Healing, SeriousFun Network, MusiCares, Silverlake Conservatory of Music, Guitar Mash NY, Camp Korey, and Little Kids Rock. Representing the music community, he lobbied in support of music education in US public schools. Smith was honored for his efforts by Little Kids Rock for helping expand public school children’s access to music education. Smith also hosted the PBS concert series Landmarks Live in Concert, and has teamed up with Will Ferrell for the One Classy Night event to raise money for Cancer for College.