BB King Was Afraid To Perform At Sing Sing Prison But Called It His Best Performance Ever

This clip is a portion of my feature-length documentary, Sing Sing Thanksgiving, recorded in 1972 at the prison in Ossining NY outside of New York City. We got permission to present the concert from the Warden and took full of it to create and then record this incredible event plus tell the lives of some of the inmates who helped make it happen.

Regarding the Sing Sing prison performance, B.B. King said in an interview with NPR:
"I've played a lot of prisons since but Sing Sing is the only one that I can remember the name of and the reason is because I was scared. I thought it was the end of my life."

The experience was an emotionally charged one for King who was initially apprehensive about performing at the prison. However, the performance turned out to be a success, with the inmates showing great appreciation for the music. King's fears were alleviated, and the event left a lasting impression on him. He considered it is absolutely best performance up until that time.

B.B. King, born Riley B. King, was a highly influential blues singer and guitarist who became popular for several reasons:

B.B. King's unique guitar playing technique that included finger vibratos and string bending helped create a signature sound. His approach to the guitar was both melodic and expressive which made him stand out from other blues musicians. King's iconic Gibson guitar, which he named "Lucille," became synonymous with his musical identity.

B.B. King had an incredible ability to convey emotions through his music. His soulful, impassioned singing, coupled with his expressive guitar playing, allowed him to forge a deep connection with his audience.

As perfectly demonstrated in this clip, BB King was a captivating performer who could command the attention of his audience through his natural charisma and engaging stage presence. His storytelling and anecdotes between songs made his concerts an intimate and unforgettable experience.

Over his long career, B.B. King released more than 50 albums and maintained a rigorous touring schedule, performing over 200 shows per year at his peak. This relentless work ethic and dedication to his craft helped him amass a surprisingly large loyal following.

While B.B. King was a blues musician at heart, his music transcended genres and appealed to fans of rock, jazz, and R&B. Collaborations with other prominent artists like Eric Clapton, U2, and Bonnie Raitt further expanded his audience.

Timelessness: King's music has a timeless quality that continues to resonate with fans both old and new. His impact on the blues genre and his influence on generations of musicians have cemented his status as a legendary artist.

Awards and accolades: B.B. King received numerous awards and honors throughout his career, including 15 Grammy Awards, a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, and inductions into the Blues Foundation Hall of Fame and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. These recognitions helped raise his profile and solidify his popularity.

I would like to thank the sponsors who advertise on my video of BB. The BB King Museum. BB King blues club ticket. BB King Lucille. Best blues. Jazz and blues. Live blues music. Blues jam near me. Beginner blues guitar songs. vancleave. rolling Fork. Delta blues. BB King Mississippi Delta.

To support my efforts to create more clips please donate to me at w advantage www.patreon.com/allinaday. To reach me re my film, send me an email to [email protected]
David Hoffman - filmmaker
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