Lucille by B. B. King

Lucille

by B. B. King

Released: October 18, 1968

Blues

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Why This Album Matters

This album matters because its strongest editorial story is: Title Meaning.

01

The Album

"Lucille" is a studio album by the iconic blues musician B.B. King, released in 1968. The album is named after King's famous guitar, "Lucille," which itself has an interesting backstory. The name "Lucille" originated from an incident in the 1950s when King was performing at a dance hall in Arkansas.

Stories and details

Interesting Facts

During the performance, a fight broke out and…

During the performance, a fight broke out and a barrel of burning kerosene was knocked over, causing a fire.

He risked his life to save the instrument…

He risked his life to save the instrument and later found out the two men had been fighting over a woman named Lucille, prompting him to name his guitar after her as a reminder to never do something as reckless again.

King rushed out but realized he had left…

King rushed out but realized he had left his guitar inside.

The "Lucille" album showcases B.B. King's exceptional guitar…

The "Lucille" album showcases B.B. King's exceptional guitar skills and deep, soulful voice, featuring a mix of original compositions and covers.

The album includes tracks like "Lucille," in which…

The album includes tracks like "Lucille," in which King narrates the story of his guitar, and other blues staples that highlight his influence on the genre.

Full background

The Complete Album Story

"Lucille" is a studio album by the iconic blues musician B.B. King, released in 1968. The album is named after King's famous guitar, "Lucille," which itself has an interesting backstory. The name "Lucille" originated from an incident in the 1950s when King was performing at a dance hall in Arkansas. During the performance, a fight broke out and a barrel of burning kerosene was knocked over, causing a fire. King rushed out but realized he had left his guitar inside. He risked his life to save the instrument and later found out the two men had been fighting over a woman named Lucille, prompting him to name his guitar after her as a reminder to never do something as reckless again.

The "Lucille" album showcases B.B. King's exceptional guitar skills and deep, soulful voice, featuring a mix of original compositions and covers. The album includes tracks like "Lucille," in which King narrates the story of his guitar, and other blues staples that highlight his influence on the genre.

The production of the album combines King's traditional blues sound with elements of jazz and a big band influence, thanks to the horn sections and arrangements. "Lucille" is considered a quintessential B.B. King album and a significant part of his discography, reflecting his virtuosity and emotional depth in blues music.

B.B. King's "Lucille" album remains a celebrated work, showcasing his emotional connection to the instrument and his influential style that resonates within the world of blues music.

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