Adrian Belew shares his experiences with a numb left hand that persisted from his wake-up call to soundcheck, expressing some fear. He discusses his hand's repair and the progress in his playing ability since then.
Adrian Belew Overcomes Carpal Tunnel Syndrome During King Crimson Tour
Adrian Belew, the renowned guitarist and bandmate of King Crimson, faced a significant health challenge during the band's tour—carpal tunnel syndrome in his left hand. The condition caused numbness in his hand from the moment he woke up until soundcheck, a concern that nearly made him fear he might not play again.
Fortunately, Belew's bandmate, the acclaimed guitar hero Steve Vai, stepped in to offer guidance. Vai, who had experienced carpal tunnel syndrome twice, introduced Belew to one of the best surgeons in the United States for the operation. The surgery was a success, and Belew describes the recovery as simple.
Post-surgery, Belew experienced some tenderness initially but was able to regain full use of his left hand and return to his previous playing ability without pain. This medical intervention, coupled with the support from Steve Vai, was instrumental in his recovery and return to performing.
The tour was not without its moments of inspiration, however. Belew, along with his friend Rob Fetters, was inspired by Eddie Van Halen's tapping technique and raced home to try it out.
Currently, Belew is on a legendary tour with King Crimson, joined by Steve Vai, Tony Levin, and Danny Carey. His recovery from carpal tunnel syndrome serves as a testament to his resilience and dedication to his craft.
[1] Source: https://www.guitarworld.com/news/adrian-belew-reveals-he-had-carpal-tunnel-surgery-during-king-crimson-tour [2] Source: https://www.musicradar.com/news/adrian-belew-reveals-he-needed-carpal-tunnel-surgery-during-king-crimson-tour-1074572 [4] Source: https://www.guitarplayer.com/gear/106882/adrian-belew-reveals-he-needed-carpal-tunnel-surgery-during-king-crimson-tour/
Cult Guitar Hero Rob Fetters and Adrian Belew's Friendship
In a separate development, Rob Fetters, a cult guitar hero in his own right, formed a lifelong friendship with Adrian Belew. The duo, inspired by Eddie Van Halen's tapping technique, raced home to try it out, marking a significant moment in their shared musical journey.
Fetters and Belew's friendship adds another layer to the rich tapestry of the music industry, demonstrating the power of collaboration and mutual inspiration in the face of challenges.
Steve Vai's Reassurance and Guidance
Throughout the process, Steve Vai was a constant source of reassurance and guidance for Adrian Belew. Vai walked Belew through the process of dealing with carpal tunnel syndrome, having undergone the procedure twice himself. His expertise and support were crucial in helping Belew navigate the challenges of the condition and ultimately return to the stage.
This act of camaraderie underscores the importance of support systems within the music industry and serves as an inspiration for musicians everywhere.
Belew's Fear of Never Playing Again
The carpal tunnel syndrome was a deeply concerning issue for Belew, as he feared he might not play again. This fear was not unfounded, given the debilitating nature of the condition and the critical role his left hand plays in his music. However, with the support of his bandmates, particularly Steve Vai, and the successful surgery, Belew was able to overcome this challenge and continue his illustrious career in music.
Sources
- Source: https://www.guitarworld.com/news/adrian-belew-reveals-he-had-carpal-tunnel-surgery-during-king-crimson-tour
- Source: https://www.musicradar.com/news/adrian-belew-reveals-he-needed-carpal-tunnel-surgery-during-king-crimson-tour-1074572
- Source: https://www.guitarplayer.com/gear/106882/adrian-belew-reveals-he-needed-carpal-tunnel-surgery-during-king-crimson-tour/
- Source: https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/adrian-belew-reveals-he-needed-carpal-tunnel-surgery-during-king-crimson-tour-1074572/
- Source: https://www.ultimate-guitar.com/news/general_music_news/adrian_belew_reveals_he_needed_carpal_tunnel_surgery_during_king_crimson_tour.html
- Adrian Belew and cult guitar hero Rob Fetters found inspiration in Eddie Van Halen's tapping technique, using fitness-and-exercise to race home and experiment with it, a moment that marked a significant turning point in their shared musical journey.
- The friendship between Belew and Fetters serves as a testament to the power of collaboration, mutual inspiration, and the impact of health-and-wellness on creativity in the music industry.
- Guitarist Steve Vai, a renowned name in the music industry, offered valuable guidance to Belew when he was facing carpal tunnel syndrome, sharing his knowledge gained from his personal experiences with the condition.
- The amp on Belew's guitar plays an essential role in his music, making the successful surgery critical for his return to health, mental-health, and delivering electrifying performances on stage.
