Anthony Kiedis, who wrote the lyrics to “Dark Necessities” in Hawaii, explained that the song:

speaks to the beauty of our dark sides and how much creativity and growth and light actually comes out of those difficult struggles that we have on the inside of our heads that no one else can see.

From Billboard:

The song is a sturdy, energetic RHCP single featuring some prototypical bass funk from Flea, druggy confessions from Anthony Kiedis and some unexpected disco keys.

“Dark Necessities” is the first single from the Red Hot Chili Peppers‘ album The Getaway.

In an official video released by the band, Anthony Kiedis stated how he originally wanted “The Getaway” to be released as the lead single but producer, Danger Mouse, pushed hard for it to be “Dark Necessities” instead.