Legendary guitarist Jake E. Lee, best known for his work with Ozzy Osbourne, Badlands, and Red Dragon Cartel, has spoken out in praise of Red Hot Chili Peppers drummer Chad Smith after news broke that Smith is launching a new music scholarship program at the University of Minnesota.
The initiative, spearheaded by Smith, aims to provide financial support and resources for aspiring musicians, ensuring that talented young people have access to quality education and opportunities in music regardless of their background.
For Lee, the announcement struck a powerful chord. Reflecting on Smith’s actions, he commented:
> “It’s a good thing people still care and want the younger generation to learn good music. I’m proud of what Chad is doing — it shows he understands how important it is to keep music alive for the future.”
A Legacy of Giving Back
Chad Smith, long recognized not only for his thunderous drumming with the Red Hot Chili Peppers but also for his outspoken support of music education, has frequently used his platform to highlight the importance of arts programs. The University of Minnesota scholarship is the latest in a string of efforts from Smith to nurture the next generation of performers.
Jake E. Lee, who began his own career by teaching himself on his sister’s acoustic guitar before moving on to his famed “Old Whitey” Stratocaster, knows firsthand how access and encouragement can change a young musician’s life. In his view, programs like this don’t just fund education — they spark possibility.
The Importance of Musical Education
Lee noted that while raw passion and talent are vital, having the opportunity to study, experiment, and learn in an academic environment can be transformative. Many great musicians, from classical performers to rock legends, have credited structured education and mentorship with giving them the confidence and discipline to develop their art.
“Not everyone is going to just pick up a guitar in their bedroom and find their way,” Lee explained. “Sometimes you need guidance, resources, or just that chance to be surrounded by people who believe in you. That’s what makes what Chad’s doing so important.”
Mutual Respect Among Rock Veterans
Although they hail from different musical worlds — Lee from the heavy metal scene of the ’80s and Smith from the funk-rock explosion of the ’90s — the two artists share a respect for the power of music to inspire and connect. Lee’s praise underscores the camaraderie among veteran musicians who recognize that the future of music depends on supporting those who will carry it forward.
Looking Ahead
As the scholarship program takes shape at the University of Minnesota, Smith’s efforts are already being hailed as a step forward for music education in the U.S. With endorsements from figures like Jake E. Lee, the initiative is likely to attract attention from fans and industry professionals alike.
For Lee, the message is clear: music must be preserved, nurtured, and passed down. And as he put it, Chad Smith’s new scholarship is proof that “people still care” about ensuring that legacy endures.
Leave a Reply