Flea , the legendary bassist of the Red Hot Chili Peppers , released the single "A Plea" last Wednesday, the 2nd, a sample of his first solo album scheduled for 2026, through the label Nonesuch Records.
The music video, directed by his daughter, photographer and filmmaker Clara Balzary, shows Flea in an interpretive dance performance. In the song itself, Flea returns to his first instrument, the trumpet, as well as taking up electric bass and vocals, in a clear artistic shift after decades as one of rock's most influential bassists.
In a press release, Flea said: “I don’t care about the act of politics. I think there’s a much more transcendent place above that where there can be a discourse that truly helps humanity. There’s a place where we meet, and that’s love.”
The track, which lasts about eight minutes, features a team of modern jazz musicians: bassist Anna Butterss , guitarist Jeff Parker , drummer Deantoni Parks , percussionist Mauro Refosco , flute player Rickey Washington , trombone player Vikram Devasthali, plus vocals and saxophone by Chris Warren and Josh Johnson.
Flea's solo album is still untitled. Details such as the tracklist and release date are expected to be revealed in early 2026.
