QUESTION about King Crimson's no video policy

Although Fripp is a musical genius, I'm pretty surprised that these guys are like the only band that gives a crap if they're videoed. I'm going to the Los Angeles show on October 1st and was wondering if security at the venues actually patrol Fripp's "video with your eyes and record with your ears" BS statement, because I really wanna video like 1 or 2 songs without getting thrown out or pissing Fripp off enough to leave lol.

I really understand the "enjoy the show in the moment and not on a phone screen", as I'm not filming probably 90% of concerts. But these guys need to understand that they wouldn't be where they are without us fans attending shows. As long as the filmers aren't blocking others' views and their phones aren't on full-brightness or accidentally snapping flash photos, how can that really be a "distraction" for the band or even audience?

Anyways, just wanted to get a quick question answered from someone who went to a Crimson show this year :)

Yes the ushers patrol the floor and stop people recording and I've been at gigs where Fripp has stopped a gig due to photograhy. Put the camera away and respect the artists wishes and the terms of sales of the ticket.

DBJetsman wrote: I'm pretty surprised that these guys are like the only band that gives a crap if they're videoed.

I'm pretty surprised by that too, as it should be common sense that people with cameras are just as annoying as people who jump up and down or wave their arms in the air or do anything other than stand still and listen to the music.

The latest KC tour is so good, I don't see why anyone would waste time trying to record it.  If Fripp would guarantee at the beginning of the show that some sort of video/audio recollection of the show was forthcoming it would probably keep people from feeling the necessity to record the show.  

Sorry to break it to you all, but it has nothing to do with Fripp being a delicate genius who's afraid of cameras. It's all about the money. I don't blame him though. He works too hard and kicks too much butt to not be making money from people who want the live experience for free. At least he finally realized that, practically speaking, he'd be better off selling songs on itunes than giving lazy internet junkies an excuse to illegally download 21st Century Schizoid Man anywhere else.

Friday13th wrote: Sorry to break it to you all, but it has nothing to do with Fripp being a delicate genius who's afraid of cameras. It's all about the money. I don't blame him though. He works too hard and kicks too much butt to not be making money from people who want the live experience for free. At least he finally realized that, practically speaking, he'd be better off selling songs on itunes than giving lazy internet junkies an excuse to illegally download 21st Century Schizoid Man anywhere else.

Fripp has always been a tight-assed prig.....still, I respect what he's done and (having never owned a cell phone, video camera, still camera, or portable taping device) would have no problem abiding by his wishes.  Just wish the tour hit more than NYC, LA and Chicago/Milwaukee.

I went to the 1st night of the SF shows and had an AMAZING experience. I was staring at the band the entire time. That being said, I totally snapped a few pictures during the first few minutes of the show because it's Fripp & King Crimson... OF COURSE I want a picture of that experience. But to be respectful I took a few at the beginning of the set and put my phone away for the rest of the night... Except to take a short video during the climax of Starless... again... it's KING CRIMSON!!! I've gone back and watched that video so many times now to relive that amazing concert and to show my friends who were not able to attend. The memories are forever in my brain, but I've also got tangible memories of this show with a few pictures and short video. I did not ruin the show for myself, the band, or anyone in attendance.

I have such respect for Fripp & KC... and I think it's fine to snap a few pics and still enjoy the show with your eyes and ears. 

SirPsycho388 wrote: I have such respect for Fripp & KC... and I think it's fine to snap a few pics and still enjoy the show with your eyes and ears.

If I had been busy trying to take a "viddie" at the Albany shows in September, I wouldn't have been able to grab Pat's broken stick that he slid across the stage floor to me on the 2nd night. 

I'll wait for the official video release(s) of this tour - I have no doubt whatsoever in my mind that Fripp will be releasing a DVD/Bluray of one or more nights of this tour.  How could he not?  I've seen Crim on every US tour since 1995, this tour was by far the most pleasing.