KNCT Artist Spotlight – B.B. King

Over his career spanning nearly seven decades, he left an indelible mark on the music world, inspiring countless musicians and bringing blues to a global audience.

Gary Emmert
3–4 minutes

The King of Blues

Riley B. King, better known as B.B. King, was one of the most influential blues musicians of all time. Born on September 16, 1925, in Itta Bena, Mississippi, B.B. King rose from humble beginnings to become the undisputed “King of Blues.” Over his career spanning nearly seven decades, he left an indelible mark on the music world, inspiring countless musicians and bringing blues to a global audience.

B.B. King’s early life was marked by hardship. Raised by his grandmother in a rural setting, he experienced the challenges of poverty and segregation. Despite these obstacles, he found solace in music. At a young age, King started singing in church choirs, and by his teens, he had developed a passion for the guitar.

B.B. King’s career took off in the 1940s when he moved to Memphis, Tennessee. There, he gained a spot on a radio program and began performing in local clubs. His unique style, characterized by his fluid guitar playing and soulful voice, quickly garnered attention. B.B. King popularized the single-string technique, playing intricate solos that conveyed deep emotion and nuance.

His beloved guitar, famously named “Lucille,” became a signature element of his performances. King’s ability to make the guitar “sing” set him apart from other musicians of his time.

Throughout his career, B.B. King released over 40 studio albums and countless live recordings. His hits include classics like “The Thrill Is Gone,” “Every Day I Have the Blues,” and “Sweet Little Angel.” His contributions to music earned him numerous awards, including 15 Grammy Awards. In 1987, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, cementing his status as a music icon.

B.B. King’s influence on the blues genre and broader music landscape cannot be overstated. His innovative techniques and emotive performances have inspired generations of musicians across various genres, from rock to jazz. Notable artists such as Eric Clapton, Jimi Hendrix, and Stevie Ray Vaughan have cited King as a significant influence on their work.

Beyond his musical achievements, B.B. King was known for his warm personality and commitment to his craft. He continued to perform well into his 80s, sharing his love for music with fans around the world.

B.B. King’s legacy lives on through his timeless music and the countless artists he inspired. His contributions to the blues genre have left an indelible mark on the history of music. As the King of Blues, B.B. King’s name will forever be synonymous with the soulful, expressive power of the blues.

Discography

B.B. King had an extensive discography. Here are some of his notable albums:

Studio Albums

  1. Singin’ the Blues (1956)
  2. The Blues (1958)
  3. B.B. King Wails (1959)
  4. Sings Spirituals (1960)
  5. The Great B.B. King (1960)
  6. King of the Blues (1960)
  7. My Kind of Blues (1960)
  8. Easy Listening Blues (1962)
  9. Blues in My Heart (1963)
  10. Mr. Blues (1963)
  11. Live at the Regal (1965)
  12. Blues Is King (1967)
  13. Lucille (1968)
  14. Completely Well (1969)
  15. Indianola Mississippi Seeds (1970)
  16. Live in Cook County Jail (1971)
  17. Guess Who (1972)
  18. To Know You Is to Love You (1973)
  19. Friends (1974)
  20. King Size (1977)
  21. Midnight Believer (1978)
  22. Take It Home (1979)
  23. There Must Be a Better World Somewhere (1981)
  24. Love Me Tender (1982)
  25. Blues ‘N’ Jazz (1983)
  26. Six Silver Strings (1985)
  27. King of the Blues: 1989 (1988)
  28. There Is Always One More Time (1991)
  29. Blues Summit (1993)
  30. Lucille & Friends (1995)
  31. Deuces Wild (1997)
  32. Blues on the Bayou (1998)
  33. Makin’ Love Is Good for You (2000)
  34. Riding with the King (2000, with Eric Clapton)
  35. Reflections (2003)
  36. One Kind Favor (2008)

This is just a selection of his work. B.B. King released over 40 studio albums and numerous live recordings throughout his career. His music continues to inspire and influence musicians around the world.

The Softer Side with Carl Rossi

Join us on this week’s episode of The Softer Side with Carl Rossi for a musical journey through love, change, and nostalgia. Our curated playlist features timeless classics that reflect on relationships and the ever-changing rhythms of life.

Each track invites you to reminisce, reflect, and embrace the beauty of life’s changes. Tune in and let these songs transport you to a place of heartfelt memories and soulful moments.

Trending