B.B. King
B.B. King, born Riley B. King on September 16, 1925, near Itta Bena, Mississippi, was an iconic American blues guitarist and singer. Raised in the Mississippi Delta, his early exposure to gospel music in church significantly influenced his singing style. King's guitar technique, characterized by lyrical single-string responses and a distinctive vibrato, was shaped by influences such as T-Bone Walker and jazz guitarists like Django Reinhardt.
King's career began with him playing on street corners and with gospel groups before moving to Memphis in the mid-1940s. There, he gained his first break on WDIA radio, which led to a recording contract with Modern Records. His 1951 hit "Three O'Clock Blues" launched a nationwide touring career, with King performing an extraordinary number of shows, including 342 in 1956 alone.
Despite early challenges in achieving mainstream success, King's influence grew, particularly as rock musicians like Eric Clapton began to cite him as an inspiration. His 1969 hit "The Thrill Is Gone" brought him broader recognition and chart success. Known for his tireless touring schedule, King played worldwide, including in the Soviet Union, South America, and Japan.
B.B. King's contributions to music were recognized with numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards, induction into the Blues Foundation Hall of Fame in 1984, and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987. He received the Presidential Medal of Arts in 1990 and the Kennedy Center Honors in 1995. King also opened several B.B. King Blues Clubs in major cities.
King passed away on May 14, 2015, in Las Vegas, Nevada, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most influential blues musicians, often referred to as "The King of the Blues." His innovative guitar style and passionate performances continue to inspire musicians worldwide.
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