Frusciante confirms Chilis exit
John Frusciante has confirmed he has left Red Hot Chili Peppers – more than a year ago.
It was claimed earlier this week that the guitarist had departed the ‘Californication’ singers and been replaced by session musician Josh Klinghoffer but now John has spoken out to reveal he actually quit amicably in 2008.
He wrote on his blog: "When I quit the band, over a year ago, we were on an indefinite hiatus. There was no drama or anger involved, and the other guys were very understanding. They are supportive of my doing whatever makes me happy and that goes both ways. To put it simply, my musical interests have led me in a different direction."
John – who previously left the group in 1992 and rejoined in 1999 – said he “really loved the band” but wants to focus on his own projects.
He added: "Over the last 12 years, I have changed, as a person and artist, to such a degree that to do further work along the lines I did with the band would be to go against my own nature.
"There was no choice involved in this decision. I simply have to be what I am, and have to do what I must do."
