Jack Irons, the original drummer and co-founder of the Red Hot Chili Peppers celebrates 62 today

Irons’ professional career began in the late 1970s when he co-founded the influential alternative rock band Red Hot Chili Peppers alongside his high school friends Michael “Flea” Balzary and Hillel Slovak and later was also the drummer for Pearl Jam during the mid to late 1990’s

Jack Irons, the original drummer and co-founder of the Red Hot Chili Peppers celebrates 62 today



Jack Steven Irons was born on July 18, 1962, in Los Angeles, California. Raised in a musical household, Irons developed an early interest in drumming, which was encouraged by his parents. By the age of 13, he had already begun to explore his passion for music, leading him to attend the prestigious University High School, where he would meet future bandmates.
Irons’ professional career began in the late 1970s when he co-founded the influential alternative rock band Red Hot Chili Peppers. Alongside his high school friends Michael “Flea” Balzary and Hillel Slovak, Irons helped to establish the band’s early sound, which blended punk rock, funk, and psychedelic music. Irons played drums on the band’s first three albums: “The Red Hot Chili Peppers” (1984), “Freaky Styley” (1985), and “The Uplift Mofo Party Plan” (1987). The band gained a dedicated following with their energetic performances and unique style.
Tragedy struck in 1988 with the death of Hillel Slovak from a heroin overdose, deeply affecting Irons. Struggling with the loss, he decided to leave the band, seeking time to recover and reevaluate his path.
After his departure from Red Hot Chili Peppers, Irons played with various artists, contributing to different projects and exploring new musical directions. In the early 1990s, he joined Pearl Jam, replacing their original drummer. His tenure with Pearl Jam was significant, as he played on the critically acclaimed albums “No Code” (1996) and “Yield” (1998). His drumming style added a new dimension to the band’s evolving sound.
Irons left Pearl Jam in 1998 due to health issues and the pressures of touring. Despite this, he remained active in the music scene, collaborating with other artists and pursuing solo projects. In 2004, he released his debut solo album, “Attention Dimension,” showcasing his versatility as a musician.
In recent years, Jack Irons has continued to contribute to the music industry. He has reunited with the Red Hot Chili Peppers for special performances and has been involved in various collaborations. Irons has also worked on film soundtracks and other creative projects, demonstrating his enduring passion for music.
Jack Irons also has been open about his struggles with mental health, particularly in the wake of his friend Hillel Slovak’s death. His experiences have shaped his outlook on life and music, making him a respected figure in the industry.
Irons is married to his wife, Tanya, and they have two children. The family resides in Los Angeles, where Irons continues to create and explore new musical ventures.



Watch the 1984 music video of one the Red Hot Chili Peppers’ early hits “True Men Don’t Kill Coyotes”

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