BB King — Interview Clips

BB King Interview Footage

The inimitable B.B. King, a titan of the blues whose influence on electric guitar playing is still felt today. As we delve into our archive's collection of interviews with this music legend, it becomes clear that his words offer a fascinating glimpse into the mind and experiences of one of the most iconic musicians of all time.

One of the earliest clips in our collection, "BB King Interview in London, June 1971," provides a unique snapshot of King's thoughts on his craft just as he was reaching the height of his powers. At this point in his career, King had already established himself as one of the leading figures in blues music, with a string of hit albums and singles under his belt. Yet, despite his success, King remained committed to pushing the boundaries of his art, always seeking to innovate and improve.

In this particular interview, King discusses his approach to soloing, revealing the intricate techniques that had become his hallmark style. His emphasis on fluid string bending, shimmering vibrato, and staccato picking was a departure from the more straightforward, riff-based playing prevalent in blues music at the time. By experimenting with these new sounds, King not only expanded the possibilities of electric guitar playing but also helped to shape the course of blues history.

As we move forward in our collection, we find ourselves in 1991, watching B.B. King sit down for an interview with CNBC. In this clip, King's candor and wit are on full display as he discusses his experiences in the music industry. He shares stories about his early days on Beale Street, his relationships with other musicians, and even offers some surprising insights into his own creative process.

One of the most intriguing aspects of this interview is King's discussion of his influences. While many might expect him to name-drop legendary bluesmen like Robert Johnson or Muddy Waters, King instead reveals a more eclectic range of inspirations. He talks about the impact of gospel music on his playing style and even mentions the influence of jazz greats like Charlie Christian and Django Reinhardt. This willingness to explore beyond traditional blues boundaries only adds to our appreciation for King's innovative spirit.

Finally, in "BB King talks about Elvis Presley in rare, surprising interview," we find ourselves in the presence of a more introspective King. In this clip, he opens up about his relationship with Elvis Presley, sharing some fascinating anecdotes and observations about their time together on stage. It's clear that King holds Elvis in high esteem, but also isn't afraid to speak his mind when discussing the challenges they faced as black artists working in a predominantly white industry.

Throughout these interviews, one thing becomes abundantly clear: B.B. King was not only an extraordinary musician but also a thoughtful and engaging conversationalist. His words offer a unique window into the experiences of a legendary artist, revealing both his triumphs and struggles along the way. As we continue to explore our archive's collection of interviews with this music icon, we invite you to join us on a journey through the life and times of B.B. King – one that promises to be as enlightening as it is entertaining.

Curated from public records and music databases.