When people think of The Doors, Jim Morrison often comes to mind first, but what about the other members of this iconic band? Among them, the Doors guitarist Robbie Krieger stands out with a unique and distinctive style that sets him apart from other guitarists.

Robbie Krieger’s contributions to The Doors were integral, yet he remains underrated in some circles. I discovered the depth of his talent when I saw him perform at Columbus, Ohio’s legendary Newport Music Hall. Despite the modest crowd size, Krieger’s innovative playing and humble, ego-free personality left an unforgettable impression on me.

The marquee simply read “Robbie Krieger Tonight,” with no mention of The Doors. Intrigued, I canceled my plans and joined a small group of about 30 people. As the venue went dark and the show began with the iconic words, “Is everybody in? The ceremony is about to begin,” it became clear that we were in for something extraordinary.

Barry Oakley Jr., son of The Allman Brothers Band bassist, handled the bass and delivered a stunning performance, channeling Jim Morrison with an authenticity that surpassed even Val Kilmer’s portrayal in the Oliver Stone biopic. Despite the intimate setting, Krieger’s performance was nothing short of mesmerizing. His age didn’t matter—closing my eyes, I felt transported back to 1968, experiencing the true essence of The Doors.

What makes Robbie Krieger unique as a guitarist is his self-taught mastery of the Gibson SG, blending his acoustic and flamenco background into a fingerstyle approach that is evident in tracks like “Spanish Caravan,” “Moonlight Drive,” and “Wild Child.” Unlike many of his peers from the psychedelic era, Krieger used minimal effects, relying instead on the clean, true sound of the electric guitar—a testament to his respect for the instrument’s natural tone.

Though revered by guitarists, Krieger is rarely cited as a major influence, perhaps because his work is so distinctive that it defies imitation. His style is like a masterpiece by Vincent van Gogh—recognizable and inimitable. Reflecting on my own music, such as the track “Our Sister Sleep” from Uncle Mont’s Quandry CD, I now realize how much Krieger influenced me, especially in blending blues with Middle Eastern sounds, much like The Doors did in their epic track “The End.”

When I spoke with doors guitarist Robbie Krieger

For those interested in the artistry and economics of guitar playing, Robbie Krieger, the legendary Doors guitarist, provides a masterclass in serving the song. His work on “Riders on the Storm” exemplifies this approach, where his restraint and precision allow the music to breathe, showcasing his ability to play only what is necessary to enhance the track.

At the close of the Newport show, Krieger sat down on the stage, engaging with the audience and expressing his gratitude for our presence. His humble and genuine nature left a lasting impression, further solidified when he handed me his handwritten setlist—a treasured memento from an unforgettable night.

Robbie Krieger is as vital to the creative arts as Brian Jones or Monet, using his guitar like a painter uses a brush to create vivid, colorful soundscapes. His legacy as The Doors guitarist is profound, with a body of work that is both timeless and ongoing.

Doors Guitarist Robbie Krieger Playing Live

Doors Guitar Player Robbie Krieger Discography and Online Profiles

If you’re a fan of The Doors and their legendary guitarist Robbie Krieger, you might be interested in checking out a full list of his works. You can find this comprehensive list on the Discogs page dedicated to Robbie Krieger. It includes all of his solo albums, including “Set the Night on Fire” in his collaborative works, and guest appearances. Despite his long and illustrious career, Robbie Krieger is still active and continues to play live music to this day. You can listen to his latest playing in a track from his album “The Ritual Begins At Sundown”.

This album showcases his signature style of blending various genres like jazz, rock, and blues.I hope you found this information useful and enjoyed watching some of the videos featuring Robbie Krieger’s performances. If you have any thoughts or comments, feel free to share them. While you’re here, why not take a moment to explore some other guitarists and even discover some stoner doom stuff? There’s a world of incredible music out there waiting to be discovered!