B.B. King is one of the most influential blues musicians of all time. Known for his soulful guitar playing and powerful voice, King's music has touched the lives of millions of people around the world. In this article, we will explore the life and music of this legendary artist.
Born Riley B. King on September 16, 1925, in Berclair, Mississippi, he was raised by his grandmother after his mother left him at a young age. Growing up, King worked on a cotton plantation and attended school in the winter months. It was during this time that he began playing guitar and singing at local churches
In the early 1940s, King moved to Memphis, Tennessee, where he worked as a disc jockey and played in local clubs. He got his big break in 1949 when he recorded his first hit single, "Three O'Clock Blues," which stayed at the top of the R&B charts for 15 weeks.
Over the next several decades, King continued to release hit after hit, including "The Thrill is Gone," "Sweet Little Angel," and "Every Day I Have the Blues." His music influenced countless musicians, including Eric Clapton, Jimi Hendrix, and Stevie Ray Vaughan.
But King's influence extended beyond just his music. He was also a tireless advocate for civil rights and social justice. In the 1960s, he played at rallies and events for the civil rights movement and was a personal friend of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
BBking and Martin Luther King Jr
King continued to perform and record music well into his 80s, even after being diagnosed with diabetes. He passed away on May 14, 2015, at the age of 89, but his legacy lives on through his music and the countless musicians he inspired.
In conclusion, B.B. King is a true icon of the blues genre. His soulful music and powerful voice have touched the lives of millions of people around the world. But his influence extends beyond just his music. King was also a champion for civil rights and social justice, using his platform to advocate for a better world. His legacy will continue to inspire musicians and fans alike for generations to come.