When I first heard “Blues Boy” a.k.a. B.B. King had been placed in a hospice a little over a week ago, I became sad and nostalgic. B.B. King was huge part of my childhood, especially in elementary school. I am sad, because we are in a time where so many great icons, legends, and heroes of their time (and ours), are passing away at a fairly steady rate. All of the original trailblazers and trendsetters are up in age, and becoming past tense. It honestly makes me want to cry considering these people are definion of Kings and Queens. On the other hand, I know it sounds strange for a 26 years young woman to tell you B.B. King reminds you of her childhood, so I will now explain to you why he does.

When I was little, one of my all time favorite books was called, “Rainy Day Blues” with the narrated cassette tape. I listened to it every single night before bed, sometimes multiple times. The book was narrated and the music was sung by, Mr. B.B. King, himself. I was fairly young when I first read/listened to the story and I continued to do so for some time. I have no clue where my book or cassette tape disappeared to, but there is no telling in all the moving I did when I was younger. Since last week reminded me of my love for this book I searched for a copy to order from Amazon for my own daughter. I was extremely happy to find one and it was delivered two days ago. I can’t wait to read it to her!

I remember one of the first times I actually learned what B.B. King looked like in real life. He was on an episode of “The Cosby Show” when my Grandma pointed out to me, “that is the man who sings on the ‘Rainy Day Blues’ tape we listen to.” He didn’t look anything like I had imagined he did, but I loved my book so much he was already a legend in my mind.

B.B. King is the face of blues music, even to those who don’t listen to the blues. There is such a poetic and heartfelt sound to his gritty voice that you can’t help but love. I will leave you with my top 3 favorite B.B. King songs. Although I have a top 3, the song “Sweet Sixteen” is my favorite by a long shot. I hope you enjoy them as much as I do.

Rest easy Mr. King. I hope they bury Lucille with you. I will be praying for your family during this tough time.

I wonder if the blues sound better in Heaven?

Brie <3

[05.15.15]