Adrian Belew (born Robert Steven Belew, December 23, 1949, in Covington, Kentucky) is an American guitarist, singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and record producer. He is perhaps best known for his work as a member of the progressive rock group King Crimson (which he has fronted since 1981) and for his unusual approach to guitar playing, which features bizarre electronic tones, unorthodox playing techniques and a wide variety of sonic effects (including guitar-based impressions of animals, birds, insects, vehicles and mechanical sound).
Widely recognized as an "incredibly versatile player, Belew has released a number of solo albums for Island Records and Atlantic Records which blend Beatles-inspired pop-rock with more experimental fare. In addition to King Crimson, he is a member of the more straightforward pop band The Bears and fronted his own band, Gaga, in the late 1970s and early 1980s. He has also worked extensively as a session musician, most famously with Talking Heads, David Bowie, Caifanes, Frank Zappa, and Nine Inch Nails.
In addition to his readily recognisable guitar sounds, Belew is noted for the distinct, nasal, sometimes manic feel of his vocals. His singing voice is often compared to that of Talking Heads singer David Byrne (an easy comparison after his early 80's work with that band).
His 2005 single "Beat Box Guitar" was nominated for a Grammy in the Best Rock Instrumental Performance category.
Belew has recently moved into instrument design, collaborating with Parker Guitars to help design his own Parker Fly signature guitar.
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