BB King

About BB King

Riley B. King (September 16, 1925 – May 14, 2015), known professionally as B. B. King, was an American blues guitarist, singer, songwriter, and record producer. He introduced a sophisticated style of soloing based on fluid string bending, shimmering vibrato, and staccato picking that influenced many later electric guitar blues players. AllMusic recognized King as "the single most important electric guitarist of the last half of the 20th century". He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987 and is one of the most influential blues musicians in history, earning the nickname "The King of the Blues", and is referred to as one of the "Three Kings of the Blues Guitar" (along with Albert King and Freddie King, none of whom are related). King performed tirelessly throughout his musical career, appearing on average at more than 200 concerts a year into his 70s. In 1956 alone, he appeared at 342 shows. Born and raised in the Mississippi Delta, he was attracted to music and taught himself to play guitar, beginning his career in juke joints and on local radio. King later lived and performed in Memphis and Chicago. As his fame grew, he toured the world extensively.

Discography

BB King — Rare Footage & Clips

The majestic voice and scorching guitar riffs of B.B. King are etched into the annals of music history like few others. For over nine decades, he enthralled audiences with his soulful performances, leaving an indelible mark on the blues genre. DeepCutsArchive is proud to present a comprehensive collection of rare and unseen footage of this American blues legend.

Born in 1925, Riley B. King's musical journey began in the Mississippi Delta, where he was drawn to the sounds of local juke joints and radio broadcasts. Self-taught on the guitar, he honed his craft in the fertile musical soil of the South, eventually migrating to Memphis and Chicago as his fame grew.

One of the earliest clips in our archive dates back to 1968, when King appeared on Ralph Gleason's Jazz Casual, a pioneering television program that showcased live performances by top jazz and blues musicians. In this rare footage, King is seen delivering a masterclass in blues phrasing, his fingers dancing across the fretboard with ease.

The late 1960s and early 1970s saw King's popularity soar, as he embarked on extensive world tours and released a string of critically acclaimed albums, including The Blues (1958) and B.B. King Sings Spirituals (1959). His unique style, characterized by fluid string bending and shimmering vibrato, influenced a generation of electric guitarists, earning him the nickname "The King of the Blues."

In 1971, King sat down with an interviewer in London, sharing insights into his approach to music and life. This candid conversation provides a glimpse into the mind of a true master, as he reflects on his experiences and the lessons he's learned along the way.

As the years passed, King continued to tour tirelessly, appearing at over 200 concerts annually well into his 70s. His dedication to his craft is a testament to his enduring passion for music, which remains an essential part of American cultural heritage.

The archive also features several remarkable clips showcasing King's collaborations with other notable musicians. In 2006, he joined forces with John Mayer for an impromptu jam session, trading licks and demonstrating the timeless appeal of blues music. These moments of musical camaraderie serve as a reminder of the power of music to bring people together.

Throughout his long career, King was recognized with numerous accolades, including induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987. His influence can be heard in the work of countless musicians who followed in his footsteps, from Eric Clapton to Stevie Ray Vaughan.

One clip that stands out for its sheer rarity is "BB KING plays OASIS ! (AMAZING RARE FOOTAGE!!!)", which features King tackling the iconic Oasis track with characteristic swagger. This unexpected cover serves as a reminder of the bluesman's versatility and willingness to experiment with new sounds.

In addition to his musical prowess, King was also an accomplished songwriter and record producer. His compositions for Duke Ellington, included in the album Compositions of Duke Ellington and Others (1960), demonstrate his ability to craft memorable melodies that transcend genre boundaries.

As we delve into the DeepCutsArchive collection, it becomes clear that B.B. King's impact on music extends far beyond his own performances. He helped shape the sound of American blues, influencing generations of musicians who followed in his footsteps. Through these rare and unseen clips, we gain a deeper appreciation for the enduring legacy of this musical giant.

The archive also includes several poignant moments from King's later years, including "BB talks about Elvis Presley in rare, surprising interview" (1991) and "RARE! BB King, 1988". These candid conversations offer a glimpse into the mind of a true legend, as he reflects on his life, music, and the people who have shaped him.

In the words of AllMusic, B.B. King was "the single most important electric guitarist of the last half of the 20th century." As we explore this comprehensive collection of rare footage, it becomes clear that his influence extends far beyond the realm of blues music. He remains an essential part of American cultural heritage, a testament to the power of music to transcend time and generations.

The DeepCutsArchive collection is a treasure trove of musical history, offering a unique glimpse into the life and career of B.B. King. From his early days in the Mississippi Delta to his later years as a global phenomenon, this archive provides an intimate look at the man behind the music. As we celebrate the enduring legacy of "The King of the Blues," we are reminded of the transformative power of music to inspire, uplift, and connect us all.

Curated from public records and music databases.