Date of Birth: September 16, 1925
Zodiac Sign: Virgo
Date of Death: May 14, 2015
Biography
Riley B. King, better known by his stage name B. B. King, was an American blues singer, electric guitarist, songwriter, and record producer. Born on September 16, 1925, in Itta Bena, Mississippi, King is widely regarded as one of the most influential blues musicians of all time, often referred to as the “King of the Blues.” He began his career in the 1940s and quickly rose to prominence with his expressive, soulful guitar playing and evocative voice. His signature vibrato and string bending techniques have influenced countless guitarists across various genres. King released dozens of albums over his career and won numerous awards, including 15 Grammy Awards. He continued to perform and record until his death on May 14, 2015, leaving behind a legacy that has profoundly impacted the music world.
5 Interesting Facts about B. B. King
1. B. B. King’s famous guitar was named “Lucille,” a tradition he maintained after rescuing it from a fire in a club.
2. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987.
3. King played over 200 concerts a year well into his 70s.
4. He was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President George W. Bush in 2006.
5. King was a vegetarian and an advocate for animal rights.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from B. B. King
1. “The beautiful thing about learning is nobody can take it away from you.”
2. “I’ve always tried to play my guitar with feeling. I don’t know any other way.”
3. “The blues was bleeding the same blood as me.”
4. “I wanted to connect my guitar to human emotions.”
5. “Nobody loves me but my mother, and she could be jivin’ too.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
B. B. King’s highest net worth was estimated to be around $10 million.
Children
B. B. King claimed to have fathered 15 children, though his will named 11 of them. Despite his busy career, he made efforts to maintain relationships with them and supported them financially.
Relevant Links
1. [Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Inductee](https://www.rockhall.com/inductees/bb-king
2. [B. B. King’s Official Website](https://www.bbking.com/
3. [Grammy Awards Profile](https://www.grammy.com/artists/bb-king/3588
5. [Biography on Britannica](https://www.britannica.com/biography/B-B-King