Probably the best known bluesman in the world and still active right up until shortly before his death in 2015! He’s had hits in every decade since he started recording over 50 years ago and in his time he’s recorded in a variety of styles and collaborated with many other artists, choosing collaborations with performers as musically diverse as Diane Schuur and U2.
King recorded for Modern Records throughout the 50s (ABC from 1960 onwards) although probably the best way of hearing some of his earlier material is through the live album “Live At The Regal” which is universally acknowledged as one of the best ever live sets in popular music, not just within a blues setting. Recorded in 1964 and released the following year, it features King at his peak, stretching out more than he usually does in the studio and including very strong interpretations of B.B signatures such as ‘Everyday I Have The Blues’, ‘Sweet Little Angel’ and ‘You Upset Me Baby’.
As B.B progressed and developed over the years, he flirted with a variety of styles and collaborated with many other musicians. In the 70s he made a couple of excellent albums with the Crusaders, the first of which, “Midnight Believer“, is probably the best. Blues purists may not like the musical road B.B travelled with these collaborations but the songs (which include ‘Never Make Your Move Too Soon’, ‘When It All Comes Down’ and the title track), King’s playing and often underestimated singing are all uniformly excellent – I would urge you to listen to it. B.B rarely released a poor record, so there is always something of value on any CD available.
Influenced by T.Bone Walker and jazz guitarists, he has often cited his admiration for players such as Charlie Christian and Django Rheinhardt. This style has spawned many imitators (who very rarely played with King’s fluency) but also influenced many fine players, including those of the quality of Buddy Guy and Albert and Freddie King. Later albums such as the collaborative “Blues Summit” (released on MCA MCD10710 in the UK) which features duets with Robert Cray, Buddy Guy, John Lee Hooker, Etta James, and Ruth Brown amongst others are strong reminders that he can still play the Blues better than anyone. Other releases include the Clapton collaboration “Riding With The King“, the fine “Blues On The Bayou” (just King and his band taking it back home!) and another ‘King with guests album’ (“Duets“). All worth getting hold of.
One of the best ways to hear examples from King’s various musical settings is through the Box Set “King Of The Blues“, a 4 CD compilation, which very ably covers the period 1949 – 1991 . You can still get it but it’s a little pricey. The 2CD compilation “His Definitive Greatest Hits” is a good choice for a Primer and is excellent value.
Hi, you might not remember me but I used to post quite a bit on your old Shades of Blue site (which I miss incidentally). We used to occasionally debate the merits of your choices so I thought I’d have another go here :-).
Can’t disagree with your overall take on B.B’s career but I think there are gaps in your recommendations. The Crusaders collaborations are ok but I think the late 60s albums that he produced are also worth a name check (you jump from the 64 Regal album to Midnight Believer. How about a plug for Completely Well and Indianola Mississippi Seeds? Definitely great buys after the Box Set, even for newbies