Learn "Californication" by Red Hot Chili Peppers On Guitar!

Have a blast with this Red Hot Chili Peppers Mega Hit 🌶️

In this lesson, let's explore how to play Californication by Red Hot Chili Peppers on guitar. I can't believe I haven't done a lesson for this song sooner - it's so much fun to play. It might even be one of the band's most famous hit songs!

John Frusciante put in some tasty things there, which will be fantastic to work on your guitar skills. This lesson will explore the main verse, chorus, and bridge of the song.

Together, we'll look at the original recorded version and mix in the bass line, which is a strong part of the riff. If you're following my Guitar Course, this song is best suited for intermediate guitar players who have reached Grade 4+ level.

How to Play Californication on Guitar

To play Californication on guitar, you'll mainly be playing all beginner open chords you should already be familiar with. Other than during the background of the solo, there are no barre chords in there! What a relief, right? :)

The chords are simple on their own, and you can mix it up by adding the bass part. Master the simple chords before adding the guitar emulation of the bass part!

Playing with the bass is incredible if you're playing this song on your own. But if you're playing with a band, it's best to stick with the simple version and let your bass player shine!

Californication Guitar Rhythm

To nail the strumming rhythm of this song, mute out your chords. This way, you won't be distracted and can focus on getting the timing right. The key here is to make sure your strumming movement is consistent and smooth.

There are loads of downstrums in there, with the occasional upstrum in certain parts. To help guide you, check out this diagram for the pre-chorus verse:

Strumming pattern for the Pre-Chorus

D . . U D . D . . U D . D U D .
1 e + a 2 e + a 3 e + a 4 e + a

Now for the chorus, it's all down strums. Easy stuff here! Make sure to keep that little strumming pulse even when you're doing these downstrums.

🎸 Really dig this tune and want to learn the whole thing? Check out the Californication solo lesson here.

Want chords, tabs, and lyrics to follow along with my song tutorials? Check out JustinGuitar Tabs!