Riley B. King, but now known worldwide as B.B. King, was born September 16, 1925
in Itta Bene, Mississippi. Before he headed out to pursue a music career, King would
play on street corners for any change he could get. He would travel to surrounding towns
on the same night to gain a larger audience.

In 1947, King decided to head to a town with greater possibilities. At the time, Memphis,TN
had strong opportunities for African American musicians. It didn't take long for King's talent
to be recognized. Only a year after his move he performed on a local radio program. His voice
was heard and loved and he soon became a regular performer on the radio and in bars and cafes.

B.B. King is famously known for naming him guitars Lucille. The story goes that one night he was
performing when a fight broke out among the crowd and somehow a fire started. He took a chance and ran
back into the fire to retrieve his beloved guitar. He later found out that the fight was over a woman
name Lucille, so he decided to name his guitar and every guitar since, Lucille.

It wasn't until 1951 that King had his first hit song, 3 O'Clock Blues. After the fame from this
song, he headed out the New York City to further his career. Since this move, his career hasn't stopped
and he continues to record and perform to this day.

King is known best for his easily identifiable guitar styles. He has inspired artists throughout the years.
Time has not been able to stop this icon. He has reigned as the King of the Blues for almost five decades and
there's no doubt that his music will live on forever.

King's success doesn't stop at just music. His achievments include two Grammy's, starring in several books and
he even has opened nightclubs and restaurants. In 1987 he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.