B.B. King (1925-2015), Legendary Bluesman Who Thrilled Multiple Generations of Fans

“B.B. King in 2009” by Tom Beetz

B.B. King, the legendary bluesman who, accompanied by “Lucille“, his Gibson ES-355, thrilled generations of fans with his remarkable talent, died in his sleep yesterday due to complications from diabetes. He was 89 years old. In a 1966 interview with record executive Joe Smith, King discussed his love for performing and his desire to connect with his audience.

I look at an audience kind of like meeting my in-laws for the first time. You want to be yourself, but you still want to be somebody that they like. When I go on the stage each night, I try my best to outguess my audience, I like to feel in most cases, like I’m a big guy with long ruB.B.er arms that I can reach around my audience and Swing and sway with them. Move them with me.

The thrill is gone indeed. Rest in peace Mr. King. “Lucille” and the rest of the world will miss you and the music you brought to us all.

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“Lucille” by Werner100359

images via Wikimedia Commons

via The New York Times