Anthony Kiedis Says He’s Taking Inspiration from Foo Fighters’ “M72” Tour for Red Hot Chili Peppers’ 2026 Shows
After months of recovery following his vocal surgery, Red Hot Chili Peppers frontman Anthony Kiedis has announced that the band is gearing up for an ambitious return to the stage in 2026 — and he’s taking a few cues from another rock heavyweight: the Foo Fighters.
In a recent interview, Kiedis revealed that the Chili Peppers’ upcoming world tour will feature rotating setlists and distinct show experiences across multiple nights, inspired by the Foo Fighters’ “M72” tour model. That tour, which pushed boundaries with unique staging, varying song lists, and immersive fan experiences, seems to have lit a creative spark in Kiedis and his bandmates.
“I’ve been watching how Dave [Grohl] and the Foo Fighters have been doing it,” Kiedis said. “They’re giving fans a reason to come back night after night — different songs, different energy, no two shows the same. That’s something I want to bring to the Chili Peppers’ next chapter.”
The plan includes six sold-out nights at Madison Square Garden in New York City, marking a triumphant comeback for the group. Each concert is expected to feature a distinct theme and deep cuts from across their decades-long catalog, ranging from early classics like “Under the Bridge” and “Give It Away” to modern-era hits from Unlimited Love and Return of the Dream Canteen.
According to sources close to the band, Kiedis has been collaborating closely with Flea, John Frusciante, and Chad Smith to craft a “storytelling” approach to the 2026 tour — one that reflects both their artistic evolution and the frontman’s renewed appreciation for performing after his time off the road.
“Coming out of surgery, I had to learn patience,” Kiedis shared. “There was a moment where I didn’t know when—or if—I’d be able to sing again the way I used to. But now I feel more connected to my voice, and to the music, than ever before.”
The Red Hot Chili Peppers’ touring hiatus in 2025 gave the band rare time to rest, reflect, and write. Rumors have circulated that new material could debut during the 2026 shows — possibly hinting at another studio album in the works.
Industry insiders are already calling this next tour “one of the most anticipated live comebacks in modern rock.” With the Foo Fighters’ “M72” approach serving as a blueprint, the Peppers are said to be experimenting with circular stages, enhanced visual storytelling, and deeper fan engagement, including pre-show jam sessions and pop-up art installations inspired by the band’s California roots.
Fans have responded to the news with overwhelming excitement. Many took to social media to celebrate Kiedis’ recovery and the band’s return, with one fan writing, “Only the Chili Peppers could turn six nights at MSG into six totally different experiences — this is history in the making.”
As for Kiedis, his message is one of gratitude and rebirth:
“This next tour isn’t just about playing songs,” he said. “It’s about reconnecting—with the fans, with the music, and with the feeling that rock and roll still matters. If the Foo Fighters reminded us of that, then I’m thankful for the inspiration.”
With six nights already sold out and global dates soon to follow, Red Hot Chili Peppers’ 2026 tour is shaping up to be a bold, reinvigorated celebration of a band that continues to evolve — proving that after four decades, their fire still burns as bright as ever.
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