What was the name of B.B. King’s guitar? This question has intrigued music enthusiasts for decades. B.B. King, one of the most iconic blues guitarists in history, had a deep connection with his instrument, which became synonymous with his name. His guitar, affectionately known as “Lucille,” played a crucial role in shaping his legendary sound and style.
B.B. King’s journey with “Lucille” began in the late 1940s when he purchased the guitar from a pawnshop in Indianola, Mississippi. The instrument was a 1938 Gibson L-5, a model that has since become a highly sought-after collectible. King named his guitar “Lucille” after his first wife, Lucille Smith, and it became an integral part of his stage presence.
Lucille was not just a tool for B.B. King; it was a symbol of his passion for music and his resilience in the face of adversity. King’s playing style, characterized by his distinctive bending technique and expressive phrasing, was perfectly suited to the rich, resonant tone of the Gibson L-5. The guitar’s unique sound played a significant role in defining the blues as we know it today.
Throughout his career, B.B. King’s relationship with “Lucille” was marked by a few notable incidents. One of the most famous occurred in 1962 when a man attacked King on stage, reportedly due to a dispute over the woman he was with. In self-defense, King struck the attacker with “Lucille,” causing the guitar to catch fire. Miraculously, King was unharmed, but the guitar was damaged beyond repair. Despite this, he continued to perform with the guitar until his death in 2015.
Over the years, B.B. King’s guitar has become an enduring symbol of the blues genre. The story of “Lucille” has inspired countless musicians and fans, and it remains a testament to the power of music and the human spirit. Today, “Lucille” is on display at the B.B. King Museum and Delta Interpretive Center in Indianola, Mississippi, where it continues to inspire visitors from around the world.
In conclusion, the name of B.B. King’s guitar was “Lucille,” and it was more than just an instrument; it was a companion that accompanied him through thick and thin. “Lucille” became an integral part of B.B. King’s legacy, leaving an indelible mark on the world of music. Her story will forever be etched in the annals of blues history.
