The Chili Peppers began writing their next album in early 2001, immediately following the Californication tour. Frusciante and Kiedis would collaborate for days straight, discussing and sharing guitar progressions and lyrics. For Kiedis, "writing By the Way ... was a whole different experience from Californication. John was back to himself and brimming with confidence." The recording was difficult for Flea, who felt his role was being diminishedRHCP, Mullen 2010. p. 210 and fought with Frusciante about the musical direction. Flea considered quitting the band after the album, but the two worked out their problems.
