“Give It Away” is a funk-rock anthem by the Red Hot Chili Peppers, released in September 1991 as the lead single from their fifth studio album, Blood Sugar Sex Magik. Written by band members Anthony Kiedis, Flea, John Frusciante, and Chad Smith, the song is known for its infectious bassline, energetic delivery, and lyrics promoting selflessness and generosity. Produced by Rick Rubin, “Give It Away” became one of the band’s signature tracks, earning them widespread acclaim and commercial success. It won a Grammy Award for Best Hard Rock Performance with Vocal in 1992.
The lyrics of “Give It Away” were inspired by a conversation frontman Anthony Kiedis had with singer Nina Hagen. She gave him a jacket and said, “If you have a surplus of something, the best thing to do is give it away.” This philosophy resonated with Kiedis, shaping the song’s central theme of generosity and selflessness.
“Give It Away” is a fusion of funk, rock, and rap, characterized by Flea’s driving slap bassline, John Frusciante’s gritty, distorted guitar riffs, and Chad Smith’s dynamic drumming. The rhythm section creates a pulsating, high-energy groove that drives the track, while Kiedis’s spirited vocals add a layer of raw intensity. Rick Rubin’s minimalist production emphasizes the band’s tight instrumentation and raw energy, allowing each element to shine while maintaining cohesion. The interplay between the band members is a key feature of the track, reflecting their chemistry and innovative approach to songwriting.
“Give It Away” became a major hit for the Red Hot Chili Peppers. In the U.S., it topped the Alternative Airplay chart and gained heavy airplay on rock radio. Internationally, it performed well, reaching the top 10 in the UK, where it peaked at No. 9. The song’s success helped propel Blood Sugar Sex Magik to multi-platinum status, establishing the band as one of the leading acts of the 1990s alternative rock scene.
The music video for “Give It Away” was directed by French fashion photographer and director Stephane Sednaoui and features the band performing in a surreal, desert-like landscape. The video’s artistic and experimental style perfectly matches the song’s energy and message, and it became a staple on MTV, further boosting the song’s popularity.
“Give It Away” received widespread critical acclaim for its originality, infectious groove, and positive message. The song won a Grammy Award for Best Hard Rock Performance with Vocal in 1992, further cementing its place as a standout track in the band’s catalog.