What’s Flea’s Real Name?
WouterFlea’s real name is Michael Peter Balzary. He was born in Melbourne, Australia in 1962. His father was a customs official for the Australian government. His father accepted a post at the Australian consulate in Manhattan, which was supposed to last for four years. According to his biography, Flea was introduced to music at a young age by his stepfather. He eventually learned to play the trumpet and fell in love with the jazz style of music.
Flea is also a co-founder of the Silverlake Conservatory of Music. This school provides musical education for underprivileged children. He has also published a memoir called Acid For the Children, which details his early life. While he’s been an integral part of Red Hot Chili Peppers, Flea has pursued a successful solo career and side projects.
Flea has also ventured into acting, and has appeared in a number of films and television shows. His voice work was featured in The Wild Thornberries animated series, and he also played a minor role in The Big Lebowski. Most recently, he was featured in the film Low Down. Despite his acting career, Flea is a committed charity worker, having founded the Silverlake Conservatory of Music.
Flea was born in Australia, but moved to the United States when he was five. He and his mother moved to New York and then Los Angeles, where Flea spent much of his time jamming with jazz musicians. At a young age, Flea became afraid of his stepfather, who abused him. His family eventually turned to drugs and marijuana to cope with the abuse.
