A highly influential blues musician, known for his soulful and powerful guitar playing, and iconic songs like "Crosscut Saw" and "Born Under a Bad Sign".
Regarded as one of the greatest and most influential blues guitarists of all time, Albert King is best known for his iconic 1967 album Born Under a Bad Sign and its chart-topping title track. This legendary musician's unique style, which blended deep, dramatic sound with smooth, soulful singing, has inspired generations of blues and rock guitarists.
Born on a cotton plantation in Indianola, Mississippi, Albert King grew up surrounded by the rich musical heritage of the American South. He began singing in church with his family's gospel group and was influenced by his father, who played the guitar. At the age of eight, King's family moved to Forrest City, Arkansas, where he spent his childhood picking cotton on plantations.
Along with B.B. King and Freddie King, Albert King was part of a trio of legendary blues musicians known as the Kings of the Blues. Although unrelated, these three guitarists dominated the blues scene in the mid-20th century, each with their unique style and sound.
Albert King's nickname, "The Velvet Bulldozer," was a testament to his smooth, soulful singing and his imposing physical presence. Standing at an impressive 6 feet 4 inches (or 6 feet 7 inches, according to some sources) and weighing 250 pounds, King was an intimidating figure on stage. His deep, rich voice and masterful guitar playing earned him a reputation as one of the most influential blues musicians of all time.
Albert King's influence on modern music is immeasurable. His unique style has been emulated by countless blues and rock guitarists, including Eric Clapton, Stevie Ray Vaughan, and Jimmy Page. In 1983, King was inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame, and in 2013, he was posthumously inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Throughout his career, Albert King worked a variety of day jobs, including driving a bulldozer, which inspired his nickname, "The Velvet Bulldozer." Despite his success, King remained humble and true to his roots, often performing at small clubs and festivals across the American South.
Albert King's music was deeply rooted in the African American experience and the struggles of the working class. His songs often addressed themes of love, heartache, and social justice, reflecting his commitment to using his music as a means of expressing the hopes and struggles of his community.
Despite the confusion surrounding his personal life, Albert King's music remains a testament to his enduring legacy as one of the greatest blues guitarists of all time.
Born in 1925
A legendary blues musician renowned for his soulful voice, masterful guitar playing, and iconic hits like "The Thrill Is Gone." He's the embodiment of blues music, inspiring countless artists across genres.
80 Years Old
A highly influential blues and rock musician, known for his mastery of the electric guitar and hits like "Layla" and "Wonderful Tonight".
71 Years Old
A highly influential blues-rock guitarist and singer, known for his intense and passionate live performances, and iconic hits like "Pride and Joy" and "Texas Flood".
93 Years Old
A master of electric blues, known for his icy, piercing guitar tone and distinctive vocal style, which influenced many other blues and rock musicians.
91 Years Old
A highly influential blues guitarist and singer, known for his intense and passionate playing style, which has inspired many famous musicians, including Eric Clapton and Stevie Ray Vaughan.
Born in 1910
A pioneering blues musician who electrified the genre with his virtuosic guitar playing and soulful vocals, influencing generations of rock and blues legends.
Born in 1913
A blues legend who electrified the genre with his signature sound and influential hits like "Hoochie Coochie Man" and "Mannish Boy", shaping the course of rock 'n' roll .
Born in 1910
A blues legend who electrified audiences with his powerful voice and guitar playing, creating a unique sound that influenced many rock and roll artists.
