Robby Krieger, American guitarist and songwriter
Robert Alan Krieger, born on January 8, 1946, is an eminent American guitarist and highly acclaimed singer-songwriter, universally celebrated for his groundbreaking contributions as the lead guitarist of the legendary rock band, The Doors. His distinctive musicality and pivotal role in one of rock music's most influential groups ultimately led to his well-deserved induction into the prestigious Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of The Doors in 1993, solidifying his place in rock history.
Krieger's impact on The Doors' iconic sound was profound and multifaceted. Renowned for his unique guitar style, which masterfully blended flamenco, blues, and jazz influences, he often played without a pick, relying instead on his fingers to achieve a fluid, expressive, and often haunting tone. This innovative approach contributed significantly to the band's psychedelic and blues-rock fusion, setting them apart from their contemporaries and defining much of their sonic landscape.
Beyond his captivating guitar work, Robby Krieger was also a prolific songwriter for The Doors, crafting or co-writing many of their most enduring and commercially successful tracks. Among his most famous compositions is the band's breakthrough hit, "Light My Fire," a song notable not only for its lyrical depth and extended instrumental sections but also for being one of the very first songs Krieger ever wrote. Other seminal hits penned or co-penned by Krieger include the powerful and blues-infused "Love Me Two Times," the dramatic and orchestrally rich "Touch Me," and the hauntingly beautiful "Love Her Madly." His songwriting prowess was instrumental in shaping The Doors' diverse catalog, from their mystical ballads to their hard-driving rock anthems.
Following the tragic death of frontman Jim Morrison in 1971, which effectively brought The Doors' original lineup to an end, Robby Krieger continued to cultivate a vibrant and diverse performing and recording career. Demonstrating his versatility and enduring passion for music, he collaborated with a myriad of musicians across various genres. Notably, he reunited with former Doors bandmates John Densmore and Ray Manzarek on several projects, including the jazz-rock fusion group The Butts Band in the mid-1970s. Later, he performed with Manzarek as part of "The Doors of the 21st Century" (also known as "Riders on the Storm"), keeping the spirit and music of The Doors alive for new generations of fans through extensive tours and recordings.
His immense talent and lasting influence on rock guitar have not gone unnoticed. In recognition of his unparalleled skill and significant contributions to music, Robby Krieger was notably listed by Rolling Stone magazine as one of the 100 greatest guitarists of all time. This esteemed accolade underscores his revered status among the pantheon of guitar legends and his indelible mark on the landscape of popular music, affirming his legacy as a true innovator and master of his craft.
Frequently Asked Questions About Robby Krieger
- What was Robby Krieger's distinctive guitar style with The Doors?
Robby Krieger was celebrated for his unique fingerstyle approach, often playing without a traditional pick. His technique was a masterful fusion of diverse genres, prominently featuring elements of flamenco, classical guitar, blues, and jazz. This eclectic blend gave The Doors' music its distinctive, often haunting, and atmospheric guitar textures, contributing significantly to their unique sound.
- Which famous Doors songs did Robby Krieger write or co-write?
Krieger wrote or co-wrote many of The Doors' most iconic hits. His notable songwriting credits include "Light My Fire," which was the band's first major hit and a significant early composition for him. He also penned or contributed to "Love Me Two Times," "Touch Me," "Love Her Madly," "Roadhouse Blues," and "Wishful Sinful," showcasing his versatility as a lyricist and composer.
- What has Robby Krieger done since The Doors disbanded?
After The Doors' original run concluded, Robby Krieger maintained an active career as a musician and songwriter. He formed the jazz-rock fusion band The Butts Band with Doors drummer John Densmore. He has released numerous critically acclaimed solo albums, exploring various musical styles from instrumental rock to world music. He also toured extensively with Ray Manzarek as "The Doors of the 21st Century" (later "Riders on the Storm"), performing classic Doors material to live audiences worldwide and ensuring the band's legacy continued.