Chadwick “Chad” Gaylord Smith (born October 25, 1961) is an American musician and current drummer of the Red Hot Chili Peppers, which he joined in 1988 and is a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Smith is also the drummer of the hard rock supergroup Chickenfoot, who formed in 2008, and currently the all-instrumental outfit Chad Smith’s Bombastic Meatbats, who formed in 2009. As one of the most highly sought-after drummers, Smith has recorded with Deep Purple vocalist Glenn Hughes, Kid Rock, Jake Bugg, The Dixie Chicks, Jennifer Nettles, Johnny Cash, John Fogerty and The Avett Brothers. In 2010, Smith joined by Dick Van Dyke and Leslie Bixler, released Rhythm Train, a critically acclaimed children’s album which featured Smith singing and performing various instruments.
Widely regarded as one of rock music’s best drummers, Spin Magazine placed Smith at #10 on their list of the 100 Greatest Drummers of Alternative Music in May 2013. Readers of UK-based Rhythm magazine ranked Smith and Red Hot Chili Pepper bassist Flea the fourth-greatest rhythm section of all time in their June 2013 issue. Smith is also known for his charity work especially with young musicians. Smith has been a lobbyist in support of music education in U.S. public schools.