← The Liner Notes
Artist Spotlight

King Crimson

progressive rock · 1969–1981

King Crimson
📷 Hunter Desportes · CC BY 2.0

Imagine a sonic journey that melds the ethereal with the chaotic, where “21st Century Schizoid Man” propels you into a whirlwind of progressive rock splendor. Hailing from the UK, King Crimson formed a musical landscape that deftly intertwines art rock, jazz rock, and psychedelic influences, spearheaded by the iconic Robert Fripp. With a lineup that has seen the likes of Tony Levin, Bill Bruford, and Adrian Belew, their eclectic sound resonates through timeless tracks like “The Court of the Crimson King” and “Starless.” They’ve carved a niche that continues to inspire artists across genres, leaving a legacy as rich and complex as their music. So, grab your headphones and dive into the crimson tide of innovation that is King Crimson—where every note is an adventure waiting to be explored.

The facts

  • Formed 1968
  • United Kingdom
  • progressive rock, art rock, psychedelic rock
  • On Atlantic Records, Caroline Records, Discipline Global Mobile
  • Members: Tony Levin, Robert Fripp, Bill Bruford, Adrian Belew

King Crimson in the crate

21st Century Schizoid Man
King Crimson
1969
Epitaph
King Crimson
1969
In the Court of the Crimson King
King Crimson
1969
Starless
King Crimson
1974
Elephant Talk
King Crimson
1981
Frame by Frame
King Crimson
1981

🛍️ Get the King Crimson merch

Affiliate links: as an Amazon Associate and an 80sTees affiliate, we earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you. Details