The Thrill is Gone

Sad to see that B.B. King, the "King of the Blues" died late last night at the age of 89. King's place in the history of blues guitar, and his impact on guitarists of all kinds is incalculable, including such luminaries (and personal favorites) as Eric Clapton and Buddy Guy. As a matter of fact, I think I will go pop in the CD "Riding with the King" (2000, Clapton and King) and listen to it for about the hundredth time.

King's trademark style is reflective of his belief that he didn't want the music to distract from the story that the song was telling. Because of that, he rarely played and sang at the same time, but used guitar licks, chop chords and single notes to serve as point/counterpoint throughout a song. As I saw it written once, he was having a conversation with his guitar "Lucille", and I think that is the best description of his style that I have read.

The Thrill is Gone. 1993. Pure brilliance.

And again with Eric Clapton.

Rest in peace.