Robert Fripp
September 14, 2025
About
Fripp was a founding member of one of the first progressive rock bands, King Crimson. Later in his career he would go on to champion what he called New Standard Tuning and taught players how to use it in a series of classes called Guitar Craft.
What to listen for
Fripp's playing is always precise. He utilizes interesting harmonies and time signatures but never does what we would call "shred"
Examples
The title track from King Crimson's debut album. This track also features one of my favorite keyboard instruments, the mellotron. Listen for how well all the instruments work together.
The most famous song Fripp ever played on was David Bowie's heroes. Listen to the sustaining guitar achieved through feedback.
King Crimson's sound changed dramatically through the years. This track features Fripp and Adrien Belew (who will also be guitarist of the week on a later date) playing in different time signatures.
