Why The Red Hot Chili Peppers Almost Laughed Chad Smith Away

In the late 80's, the Red Hot Chili Peppers were on the search for a new drummer for the 4th time in their young history. During the audition process, you'd think they'd gravitate towards someone more like-minded in their high energy, punk-funk, wacky style. Yet, it was a guy that initially appeared to be the antithesis of everything they stood for, who blew them away with his chops and how he fit in with Flea on bass and John Frusciante on guitar.