Josh Klinghoffer Explains The Secret To His Success With Red Hot Chili Peppers And Pearl Jam
Having both Red Hot Chili Peppers and Pearl Jam in their CV would be something to be proud of for many guitarists. Josh Klinghoffer had this chance, and he handled his duties pretty well. Speaking to Guitar World for a recent interview, Klinghoffer revealed how he ended up working with RHCP and Pearl Jam as a guitarist.
Josh Klinghoffer rose to prominence with his work in Red Hot Chili Peppers. He joined the band as John Frusciante’s replacement and filled the guitarist’s shoes pretty well during his tenure. However, Frusciante’s return meant his career as a Red Hot Chili Pepper had come to an end. After several solo efforts, Klinghoffer joined Pearl Jam as a touring musician since he is a talented multi-instrumentalist.
“That’s a good question!” exclaimed Klinghoffer when asked why two iconic bands wanted to hire him. “I think it’s a combination of a lot of things. Some of it is pure luck and timing, but I also think it might have something to do with my thirst for musical knowledge. I love other people’s music but don’t try to emulate anybody’s playing. I’ve never lost the sense that I’m a beginner, which gives me a more primal approach to the guitar, and perhaps that makes my playing sound more individualistic.”
Klinghoffer continued, “Also, I never really lost the fan side of me. Whether it’s the Chili Peppers or Pearl Jam, I come at them with the same adoration as any fan who was affected deeply by their music, but I’m also somebody who is now in this position of playing alongside them. I try to be loving and supportive. I think that’s part of what carries me through.”
So, Josh Klinghoffer believes that he impressed RHCP and Pearl Jam with his neverending thirst for musical knowledge. Besides, the guitarist says his individualistic approach and unique playing style were probably contributing factors. According to Klinghoffer, he approached both bands like a fan who plays with them, and this helped him secure a place.
