top of page
Search

Notable Influences: B.B. King

B.B. King: The King of the Blues

B.B. King wasn’t just a blues guitarist—he was the blues guitarist. Born in Mississippi in 1925, he took the blues to a whole new level with his smooth, soulful playing and unmistakable sound. His guitar, Lucille, was just as famous as he was, singing right along with him on classics like The Thrill Is Gone and Every Day I Have the Blues.

What made B.B. King special? It wasn’t just his insane talent—it was the way he made you feel every note. He didn’t shred; he spoke through his guitar. His music told stories of love, struggle, and life, and you could hear his heart in every bend and vibrato.

I saw B.B. King shortly, before he passed, and it might be the most important concert I have ever been to. There's not too many artists I can think of that have influenced so many of my heroes. Even though he passed in 2015, his influence is everywhere. If you love blues, rock, or really any kind of guitar-driven music, you’ve got B.B. King to thank. The thrill ain’t gone—his legacy is still alive and kicking.

 
 
 

Recent Posts

See All
Guitar spotlight: Lowell George

Lowell George: The Slide Guitar Soul of Little Feat Lowell George was one of those rare musicians who could make a guitar weep, growl,...

 
 
 
Practice Tip for Guitar

Practice Consistently, Not Just Intensely It's better to practice 20 minutes a day than 2 hours once a week. Muscle memory develops with...

 
 
 

Comments


(207) 651-6696

©2025 by Jarred Garneau.

bottom of page