Red Hot Chili Peppers & Foo Fighters Play Rare Tracks at Silverlake Benefit

Los Angeles became the center of the music world this weekend as Red Hot Chili Peppers and Foo Fighters delivered a night of deep cuts and long-awaited rarities at a benefit concert for the Silverlake Conservatory of Music. The show, held at the Hollywood Palladium, marked the 25th anniversary of the nonprofit music school co-founded by Chili Peppers bassist Flea and former touring member Keith “Tree” Barry in 2001. Rapper Vince Staples and comedian Marc Maron also took part, rounding out an evening of nostalgia and generosity for a cause close to the artists’ hearts.

A Night of Rarities and Surprises

Red Hot Chili Peppers kicked off the evening with an instrumental jam before diving into their set with the energetic “Can’t Stop.” While the opener was familiar territory, the band soon ventured into uncharted live territory. For the first time since 2000, they resurrected “Organic Anti-Beat Box Band” from their 1987 album The Uplift Mofo Party Plan and “Blackeyed Blonde” from Freaky Styley (1985). The surprises didn’t stop there—guitarist John Frusciante rejoined the band for “Nevermind,” a track last performed live with the group in 1992. Frusciante also treated fans to a solo rendition of Carole King’s “Will You Love Me Tomorrow?”, adding another layer of rarity to the night.

The setlist balanced these deep cuts with crowd-pleasers like “Black Summer,” “Whatchu Thinkin’,” and a closing trio of “Hey,” “Eddie,” and “Give It Away.” The band’s willingness to dig into their catalog made the performance a standout for longtime fans.

Foo Fighters followed with a seven-song set that blended hits and covers. Frontman Dave Grohl led the charge with staples like “Times Like These” and “My Hero,” but the real magic happened when his daughter Violet joined him on stage. The highlight, however, came when the full Foo Fighters lineup reunited to perform their cover of Gerry Rafferty’s “Baker Street” for the first time since 2007. Originally recorded as a B-side in their early years, the track has rarely been played live, making its revival a special moment for attendees.

A Celebration of Music Education

The Silverlake Conservatory of Music, the beneficiary of the event, has been a cornerstone of Los Angeles’ music community since its founding. The school provides music education and scholarships to over 900 students each week, with more than 200 receiving financial aid. Its annual fundraiser plays a crucial role in sustaining these programs, ensuring that aspiring musicians—regardless of background—have access to instruments, instruction, and opportunities.

Flea’s involvement with the conservatory reflects the Chili Peppers’ long-standing commitment to music education. The band has frequently used their platform to support causes that nurture the next generation of artists, and this benefit was no exception. For fans, the concert offered a chance to contribute to a meaningful cause while enjoying a once-in-a-lifetime setlist.

Why This Show Mattered

For Red Hot Chili Peppers and Foo Fighters, the benefit was more than just another gig—it was a celebration of community, legacy, and the power of music to inspire. The rare tracks performed by both bands underscored their deep catalogs and their willingness to reward loyal fans with something unexpected. Meanwhile, the Silverlake Conservatory’s mission resonated with the ethos of both groups, who have consistently used their success to give back.

The Hollywood Palladium, a historic venue in its own right, provided the perfect backdrop for the evening. Its intimate yet grand atmosphere allowed fans to feel connected to the artists, making the rarities and surprises even more memorable. While no future dates for similar events have been announced, the Silverlake Conservatory’s work continues year-round, supported by the generosity of artists and fans alike.