In a rare and revealing interview, legendary blues musician BB King opened up about his relationship with Elvis Presley, shedding light on the complexities of their friendship and the misconceptions that have lingered since the King of Rock and Roll’s death. The candid remarks from King, who knew Elvis during his rise to fame in Memphis, reveal an unexpected perspective on the iconic performer, challenging long-standing rumors and highlighting the cultural dynamics of the era.
BB King, known for his soulful guitar playing and powerful voice, first met Elvis in the early days of the latter’s career. In a studio in Memphis, King described Elvis as “handsome, quiet, and polite to a fault,” recalling how the young singer would watch and absorb the music around him without asking many questions. While King initially regarded Elvis’s music as merely “okay,” he later recognized the depth of talent that would propel Elvis to global stardom.
As Elvis transitioned from rockabilly to a more profound musical style, BB King began to take notice. He acknowledged Elvis’s undeniable charisma and talent, stating, “He had everything. The looks, the talent. You started looking at this guy, God almighty, he’s handsome, he’s tall, and he can sing.” Their paths crossed again at the WDIA Goodwill Review in December 1956, an event that brought together the black community in Memphis and showcased the city’s rich musical heritage.
Despite Elvis’s massive popularity, a damaging rumor circulated in the black community that he had made a derogatory statement about African Americans. In response to these allegations, Elvis vehemently denied ever saying anything of the sort, asserting, “I never said anything like that, and people who know me know I wouldn’t have said it.” BB King, who witnessed the cultural tensions of the time, defended Elvis, stating, “I don’t think he ripped them off. He was just so great, so popular, and so hot.”
In a poignant reflection on their friendship, King revealed how Elvis helped him secure a successful gig in Las Vegas in 1972, demonstrating the camaraderie that existed between the two musicians. “We sang every one of [the blues songs],” King laughed, recalling their late-night jam sessions in Elvis’s suite.
BB King’s insights challenge the narrative surrounding Elvis’s legacy, emphasizing the mutual respect and admiration that existed between the two music legends. As the world reflects on the impact of both artists, King’s words serve as a reminder of the complexities of race, music, and friendship in a divided America.
This powerful interview not only adds depth to our understanding of Elvis Presley but also reaffirms BB King’s status as a vital voice in the music community. The revelations from this conversation are sure to spark renewed interest in the intertwined legacies of these two iconic figures.
