B.B. King's Respect for Jimi Hendrix and the Evolution of Blues Music
B.B. King, one of the most iconic figures in blues music, had a deep respect for Jimi Hendrix. This mutual admiration was not just superficial but reflected a shared commitment to the roots and evolution of blues music. Let's delve into how B.B. King viewed Jimi Hendrix’s genius and the broader impact of their interactions on the blues community.
B.B. King’s Recognition of Jimi Hendrix's Talent
Despite never having extensive interaction with Jimi Hendrix, B.B. King recognized and respected Hendrix's immense talent. King was particularly impressed by Hendrix's innovative guitar playing and his ability to blend different musical styles. In a statement, King expressed that Hendrix was both an innovator and a respected artist in his own right. His innovative approach to the guitar was groundbreaking, but it was grounded in the soul and emotion of blues music.
King’s Perspective on the Essence of Blues
B.B. King maintained that while Hendrix's performances were flashy and unique, the essence of blues should not be forgotten. King believed that the emotional depth and storytelling inherent in blues music were just as important as technical proficiency. Despite Hendrix's technical wizardry and flashy stage presence, B.B. King advocated for a deeper appreciation of the authentic roots of the genre.
Backstage Encounter and Mutual Respect
B.B. King had a fleeting but significant interaction with Jimi Hendrix. This encounter occurred backstage at a Little Richard gig, where Hendrix was in Richard's band. During this brief conversation, B.B. King described Hendrix as 'a quiet nice young man.' While this meeting was brief, it was a testament to the respect that existed between them. Many blues musicians, including King, were generally reserved in their public comments about Hendrix because they recognized his musical cues and style had roots in the work of earlier blues artists.
The Influence of Early Blues Artists
Jimi Hendrix’s work, despite its groundbreaking nature, was not entirely original. He borrowed extensively from earlier blues and rock artists. B.B. King recounted that Hendrix 'borrowed a lot of his act from guys like Johnny 'Guitar' Watson.' This acknowledgment was part of a broader recognition within the blues community that the evolution of music is built on a foundation of respect for and learning from one's predecessors.
Blues Artistry and Progression
B.B. King believed in the evolution of blues music, understanding that innovation was a natural part of the genre's development. While maintaining the essence and soul of blues, he appreciated Hendrix's unique contribution. This perspective underscored the importance of respecting and honoring the roots of a musical genre while also embracing new and innovative interpretations.
Conclusion
The relationship between B.B. King and Jimi Hendrix exemplifies the interplay of respect, innovation, and the preservation of traditional values within the realm of music. While Hendrix revolutionized the blues with his guitar playing and performances, B.B. King ensured that the emotional depth and storytelling inherent in the genre remained at the forefront. Their shared respect for each other and for the blues music tradition represents a valuable lesson for musicians and music enthusiasts alike.