B.B. King

Definition

B.B. King was a legendary American blues guitarist, singer, and songwriter, often referred to as the 'King of Blues.' His unique style and expressive guitar playing significantly shaped the blues genre and influenced a wide range of musical styles, including rock, jazz, and R&B.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. B.B. King was born on September 16, 1925, in Itta Bena, Mississippi, and began his career playing on street corners and in juke joints.
2. He popularized the use of string bending and vibrato techniques on the guitar, making his sound instantly recognizable.
3. Over his lifetime, King recorded more than 50 albums and received 15 Grammy Awards for his contributions to music.
4. B.B. King was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987, highlighting his impact on both blues and rock music.
5. His music often addressed themes of love, heartbreak, and the struggles of everyday life, resonating with audiences across generations.

Review Questions

• How did B.B. King's guitar techniques influence the development of blues and other genres?
  • B.B. King's guitar techniques, particularly his signature string bending and vibrato, greatly influenced the sound of blues music. These techniques contributed to a more emotive and expressive style that set a precedent for future guitarists across various genres. Artists in rock, jazz, and R&B have cited King as an inspiration, demonstrating how his unique approach to playing transcended the blues genre itself.
• Analyze the cultural significance of B.B. King's music in shaping the electric blues genre.
  • B.B. King's music played a pivotal role in shaping the electric blues genre by introducing elements such as amplified instruments and emotive guitar solos. His ability to convey deep emotion through his playing resonated with audiences and helped to popularize electric blues during the mid-20th century. As King brought blues into mainstream music, he not only preserved its rich traditions but also transformed it into a contemporary form that appealed to wider audiences.
• Evaluate how B.B. King's legacy has impacted contemporary music and artists today.
  • B.B. King's legacy continues to profoundly impact contemporary music by influencing countless artists across various genres. His innovative techniques have become foundational elements in guitar playing for many musicians today. Moreover, his themes of love and struggle resonate with current songwriters, ensuring that the essence of blues remains alive in modern music. As new artists draw inspiration from King's work, they keep the spirit of blues alive while integrating it into new sounds and styles.

Related terms

Lucille: The name of B.B. King's famous guitar, which he named after a woman who caused a fight at a dance hall where he was performing.

Blues Scale: A musical scale that is foundational in blues music, characterized by its use of flattened notes to create a distinctive sound.

Electric Blues: A genre that evolved from traditional blues, utilizing electric instruments and amplifiers, which B.B. King played a significant role in popularizing.