Carrie Davenport/Redferns
Carrie Davenport/RedfernsRed Hot Chili Peppers announced a major shakeup to their lineup on Sunday.
On Instagram, the band announced they are parting ways with their guitarist of 10 years, Josh Klinghoffer. “Josh is a beautiful musician who we respect and love,” the band wrote. “We are deeply grateful for our time with him, and the countless gifts he shared with us.”
So, who’s taking his place? Fans were ecstatic to find out that longtime lead guitarist John Frusciante will return for his third stint with the group. The Chili Peppers made the official announcement “with great excitement and full hearts.”
Frusciante, who replaced Hillel Slovak in 1988, left the band twice: first in 1992 and then in 2009 after returning in 1998. He is featured on five Chili Peppers albums, including the breakthrough Blood Sugar Sex Magik and the massively successful Californication.
The six-time Grammy Award-winning band didn’t reveal the reason behind Klinghoffer’s exit.
Besides Frusciante, the current band lineup consists of founding members Anthony Kiedis and Flea, along with longtime drummer Chad Smith.
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