 By the Way was lauded by critics as a departure from the band 's previous styles , and is recognized for the melodic and subdued emotions given by the Chili Peppers . Guitarist John Frusciante is credited with writing most of the album 's melodies , bass lines , and guitar progressions , therefore changing the direction of the recording dramatically : " his warm , understated guitar work and his doo @-@ wop style vocal harmonies are king this time around . " By the Way contained very little of the signature punk @-@ funk fusion the band had become known for playing . Frusciante has stated that writing " By the Way [ was ] one of the happiest times in my life . " The album went on to sell over 8 million copies worldwide . 
