INTERVIEW
Photo Jon O’Gara
78 PREMIERGUITAR APRIL 2009
Few players are as recognizable on tape as Adrian Belew. One of the most innovative players to pick up the instrument, Belew is a legend among musicians and
music lovers for his impressive resume and unorthodox approach. His notoriety
began as a guitarist for Frank Zappa on the acclaimed Sheik Yerbouti album in
which he endured a rigorous regimen of musical training from the eccentric and
brilliant composer. The work paid off in spades, as it resulted in Belew’s talent
being tapped by the prolific David Bowie, then collaborations with other greats,
such as Talking Heads and ultimately, joining King Crimson. Belew’s labors can
also be heard on records by Tori Amos, Cyndi Lauper, Paul Simon, Nine Inch
Nails, and on his own celebrated solo records, which he’s been producing since
1982 (Lone Rhino). We sat down with Belew recently and picked his brain about
his new signature Parker Fly, the future of King Crimson, and his excitement
about recording and touring with the Adrian Belew Power Trio.
