Albert King: The King of the Blues Guitar
Introduction
Albert King, often referred to as the King of the Blues Guitar, was a legendary blues guitarist who left an indelible mark on the music industry. Born as Albert Nelson in Indianola, Mississippi, he rose to prominence in the 1960s and became one of the most influential blues guitarists of all time. Often referred to as one of the “Kings” of the Blues that includes B.B. King, Freddie King and Albert.
Keypoints:
- King, also known as the King of the Blues Guitar, was a legendary blues guitarist hailing from Mississippi.
- He played the right-handed guitar but tuned it upside down, bit played left handed, creating a unique playing style.
- Albert rose to prominence with Stax Records and his landmark album Born Under a Bad Sign.
- His influence extended to future guitar greats like Stevie Ray Vaughan.
- King’s legacy endures through his timeless recordings and his rightful place in the Blues Hall of Fame.
A One-of-a-Kind Guitarist
From an early age, He showed a remarkable talent for music and had a deep passion for the guitar. He drew inspiration from blues pioneers such as Elmore James and Robert Nighthawk, crafting his unique sound that would later define his career.
One interesting fact about him is that he played the guitar right-handed, despite being naturally left-handed. However, he tuned the instrument upside down, contributing to his distinctive style and tone. This unconventional approach set him apart from other guitarists and became a defining characteristic of his playing.
The Stax Connection
It wasn’t until he relocated to Memphis in 1966 and secured a contract with Stax Records that his career truly skyrocketed. Booker T and the MGs, comprising of Booker T. Jones, Donald Duck Dunn, and Steve Cropper, served as his supporting band throughout his time at Stax, which is also when he produced numerous chart-topping hits. Together created a blues sound that was unrivaled.
King’s breakthrough came when he signed with Stax Records, a renowned record label based in Memphis. It was with here that he released his landmark album, Born Under a Bad Sign. This critically acclaimed record showcased his incredible blues guitar skills and soulful vocals, earning him widespread recognition.
Stax Records, known for its commitment to quality musicianship and production, provided the perfect platform for Albert’s talents to shine. The collaboration between King and Stax resulted in a sound that combined traditional blues with elements of soul and funk, making it highly accessible to a wide audience.
Influencing Future Guitar Greats
His impact extended beyond his own era. His innovative guitar style inspired countless guitarists, including Stevie Ray Vaughan. Vaughan, a renowned blues guitarist himself, was deeply influenced by King’s use of string bending techniques and expressive soloing. Stevie Ray Vaughan’s admiration for him led to his collaboration with him on the album In Session, a testament to the respect and admiration he held for the blues guitar legend.
The Ongoing Legacy
His contributions to the blues genre continue to resonate with audiences worldwide. His masterful command of the guitar, his soulful voice, and his ability to convey raw emotions through his music immortalized him as one of the greatest blues guitarists of all time.
In 1983, He was rightfully inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame, solidifying his status as an iconic figure in blues music history. His influence can be heard in the work of countless contemporary blues artists and aspiring guitarists who strive to capture his unique sound and style
This giant icon of the Blues legacy lives on, reminding us of the power and beauty of the blues. As we listen to his timeless recordings, we can’t help but feel a connection to the rich history of the genre and appreciate the immense talent of this true master of the blues guitar.
Early Influences
His journey in music began with his early exposure to the blues. Growing up in Indianola, Mississippi, he was deeply influenced by the sounds of blues pioneers like Elmore James and Robert Nighthawk. Their raw and emotive guitar playing struck a chord with young Albert, igniting his passion for the genre.
From Drums to Guitar
Interestingly, before becoming a guitar virtuoso, Albert initially played drums. It wasn’t until he saw a left-handed guitar player that he decided to make the switch. Despite being left-handed himself, King adapted to playing a right-handed guitar that had been strung upside down. This unorthodox approach became an essential part of his signature sound. For a while, King played drums behind bluesman Jimmy Reed.
The Stax Records Era
King’s breakthrough came in the mid-1960s when he signed with Stax Records, a label renowned for its soul and R&B releases. The collaboration between King and Stax resulted in a fusion of blues and soul that created a unique musical identity for him.
One of his most iconic songs and the title track of his critically acclaimed album, Born Under a Bad Sign, was released during his time with Stax. The album showcased his powerful vocals and mesmerizing guitar skills, firmly establishing him as a force to be reckoned with in the blues world.
Influence on Future Guitarists
King’s influence extended far beyond his own era as his innovative guitar playing caught the attention of aspiring musicians. One notable guitarist greatly impacted by Albert was Stevie Ray Vaughan. Vaughan’s admiration for King’s style led to their memorable collaboration on the album In Session. Together, they created an electrifying display of guitar mastery that resonated with audiences worldwide. Eric Clapton has said that his work on the 1967 Cream hit “Strange Brew” and throughout the album Disraeli Gears was inspired by King. Jimi Hendrix said Albert King was his idol. King said that he taught Hendrix “a lesson about the blues” when he opened for him at the Filmore in 1967.
A Continuing Legacy
We cannot overstate this icon’s impact on the Blues and Rock. His unique bending techniques, soulful vibrato, and precise phrasing set the bar high for aspiring guitarists. Even after his passing in 1992, his music continues to inspire and influence generations of guitarists who strive to capture the essence of his sound.
Discography
| Year | Album | Label |
| 1962 | The Big Blues | King |
| 1967 | Born Under a Bad Sign | Stax |
| 1967 | Travelin’ to California | – |
| 1968 | Live Wire/Blues Power | Stax |
| 1969 | Years Gone By | Stax |
| 1970 | Blues for Elvis: Albert King Does the King’s Things | Stax |
| 1971 | The Lost Session | Stax |
| 1971 | Lovejoy | Stax |
| 1972 | I’ll Play the Blues for You [1972] | Stax |
| 1973 | Blues at Sunset [Live] | Stax |
| 1974 | Montreux Festival | Stax |
| 1974 | I Wanna Get Funky | Stax |
| 1976 | Albert | Tomato |
| 1976 | Truckload of Lovin’ | Tomato |
| 1977 | I’ll Play the Blues for You [1977] | Rhino |
| 1977 | King Albert | Tomato |
| 1977 | Live | Rhino |
| 1977 | The Pinch | Stax |
| 1978 | New Orleans Heat | Rhino |
| 1979 | Albert Live | – |
| 1983 | Crosscut Saw: Albert King in San Francisco | Stax |
| 1983 | San Francisco ’83 | Fantasy |
| 1984 | I’m in a Phone Booth, Baby | Stax |
| 1984 | Laundromat Blues | Edsel |
| 1988 | Great King Albert | Tomato |
| 1988 | Jammed Together | Stax |
The Indelible King
During his lifetime, people recognized and celebrated his contributions to the blues genre. The Blues Hall of Fame inducted him in 1983, cementing his status as one of the greatest guitarists of all time. His ability to express raw emotions through his guitar and voice is a testament to his musical genius.
Whether it’s the hypnotic licks of “Born Under a Bad Sign” or the soul-stirring solos on “Crosscut Saw,” King’s music remains timeless and captivating. He left an indelible mark on the Blues, forever securing his place as the King of the Blues Guitar.
Conclusion
Albert King’s unmatched contributions to the Blues span from his early influences in Mississippi to his groundbreaking tenure at Stax Records. His unorthodox playing style, powerful vocals, and deep emotional expression continue to inspire and influence future generations of musicians. Delving into the world of Albert King’s music, we discover a true legend whose legacy will forever engrave in the annals of blues history.
Q: Who is Albert King?
A: People know Albert as a renowned blues guitarist, often referring to him as the king of the blues guitar. Many consider him as one of the greatest blues guitarists of all time.
Q: What is the significance of the term “stax” in relation to Albert King?
A: Stax refers to Stax Records, a record label based in Memphis, Tennessee. Albert King recorded some of his most influential and iconic songs at Stax Records.
Q: Did Albert King influence Stevie Ray Vaughan?
A: Yes, King had a significant influence on Stevie Ray Vaughan’s guitar playing. King’s style heavily influenced Vaughan, who incorporated elements of King’s playing into his own.
Q: Was Albert King left-handed or right-handed?
A: He played guitar with his left hand. However, he played a right-handed guitar upside down, with the bass strings at the bottom and the treble strings at the top.
Q: What type of guitar did Albert King play?
A: The Gibson Flying V guitar was known to be played by Albert King. He named his guitar “Lucy” and it became closely associated with his playing style.
Q: Did Albert King play any other instruments?
A: Indeed, Albert King’s talent extended beyond his renowned guitar skills. On some of his recordings, he showcased his versatility by playing the drums.
Q: What are some of Albert King’s most famous songs?
A: Some of Albert King’s most famous songs include “Crosscut Saw,” “Born Under a Bad Sign,” and “Don’t Throw Your Love on Me So Strong.”
Q: Did any music halls of fame induct Albert King?
A: Yes, the Blues Hall of Fame and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inducted Albert King.
Q: What is the MGS?
A: The MGS refers to the Mar-Keys, a band that collaborated with Albert King.
Q: Where was Albert King born?
A: Albert King was born in Indianola, Mississippi.
Q: What is the significance of the term “bluesman” in relation to Albert King?
A: The term “bluesman” refers to a musician who specializes in playing blues music. Albert King was a renowned blues artist and one of the most influential blues guitarists of his time.
