Red Hot Chili Peppers – March Two Re-Do at the Kia Forum
The long-awaited Red Hot Chili Peppers show at the Kia Forum on March 2nd, 2024, was more than just another concert—it was a redemption, a night to make up for what had been previously postponed. The aptly named “March Two Re-Do” was a second chance for many fans who had been anticipating this show for months, and for me, it was particularly special. I had missed out on seeing the Chili Peppers multiple times before due to personal health issues, always feeling like their shows were just out of reach. Finally, the stars aligned, and I was able to experience one of my favorite bands in a setting as legendary as the Kia Forum. The only downside? Parking had to be paid for again, which was frustrating, but ultimately, nothing could overshadow the excitement of finally seeing RHCP live.
The night kicked off with a strong lineup of openers, both of which brought something unique to the table. First up was Irontom, an L.A.-based band with ties to the Chili Peppers, as their guitarist Zach Irons is the son of original RHCP drummer Jack Irons. They delivered a high-energy set that included songs like "Be Bold Like Elijah" and "Call Me the West," blending psychedelic rock with quirky, unpredictable stage antics. Their performance was eccentric and fun, setting the mood for the night. While some in the crowd were still finding their seats, those who were paying attention seemed to appreciate the band’s infectious energy.
By the time the Red Hot Chili Peppers took the stage, the anticipation in the room was palpable. Opening with an extended jam, the band wasted no time diving into “Can’t Stop,” setting the tone for what would be an electrifying night. Flea’s basslines were as punchy as ever, John Frusciante’s guitar work was mesmerizing, and Anthony Kiedis commanded the stage with his signature blend of swagger and spontaneity. As someone who had waited so long for this moment, I found myself completely lost in the music, overwhelmed by the realization that I was finally witnessing them in the flesh.
The setlist was a well-balanced mix of classics and newer material, keeping longtime fans and newer listeners engaged. “Dani California” and “Scar Tissue” had the entire venue singing along, while deeper cuts like “Strip My Mind” and “Eddie” showcased their ability to experiment with different styles and emotions. One of the night’s highlights came in the form of “Snow (Hey Oh),” where the crowd’s voices nearly overpowered Kiedis as everyone joined in on the soaring chorus. The synergy between the band members was undeniable, and it was clear that they were just as excited to be there as the fans were.
Halfway through the show, they took a moment to acknowledge the significance of the night. Flea, always one to embrace his L.A. roots, spoke about how important the Forum was to them and how much they appreciated their hometown crowd. This led into “Otherside,” a song that hit me particularly hard in the moment, as it reminded me of past struggles and how music has always been a source of healing. Looking around, I wasn’t alone—many fans were visibly moved, proving once again how deeply the Chili Peppers’ music resonates with people.
As the show continued, the energy never dipped. “Give It Away” turned the venue into a full-blown party, with Kiedis bouncing around the stage and Flea doing his signature wild movements. Chad Smith, ever the powerhouse behind the kit, delivered a thunderous performance, proving why he’s one of the most dynamic drummers in rock. Frusciante had his own moment to shine when he delivered a stunning rendition of “I Could Have Lied,” stripping things back for an intimate, emotional highlight of the night.
Just when it seemed like the show was winding down, they returned for an encore that cemented this as one of the most memorable concerts I’ve attended. “Under the Bridge” was pure magic, with the entire venue swaying and singing every word as if it were a personal anthem. They closed with “By the Way,” an explosive finale that sent the crowd into one last frenzy of movement and energy. Even after the final notes rang out and the band took their bows, the energy in the Forum was electric, with fans still buzzing about what they had just witnessed.
Leaving the venue, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude. Seeing the Red Hot Chili Peppers live had been a long time coming for me, and despite the previous setbacks and the frustration of having to pay for parking twice, it was worth every moment. Their performance was everything I had hoped for—raw, emotional, and filled with the kind of energy that only a band of their caliber can deliver. As I walked out into the cool Inglewood night, I couldn’t help but feel like this wasn’t just a concert, but a celebration of music, resilience, and the power of finally experiencing something you’ve waited years for.
