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🇺🇸 United States · 1949–1992

Albert King

Albert King, also known as Albert Nelson, is a fundamental figure in the history of the blues. His distinctive style is characterized by a deep and dramatic sound that has influenced generations of guitarists, both in blues and rock. He is often associated with the album Born Under a Bad Sign, released in 1967, which includes one of his most iconic songs. Alongside B.B. King and Freddie King, he is part of what is known as the "Three Kings of the Blues," although there is no family relationship between them. His technique as a left-handed guitarist, playing a right-handed guitar upside down, gave him a unique approach that sets him apart in the genre.King was born on a cotton plantation in Indianola, Mississippi, and showed an interest in music from a very young age, singing in a family gospel group.

At the age of eight, his family moved to Forrest City, Arkansas, where he continued his life in a rural environment. His musical career began with a group called the Groove Boys in Osceola, Arkansas, and later he played the drums in Jimmy Reed's band. Although his first single did not have a significant impact, it was in 1961 when he achieved notable success with Don't Throw Your Love on Me So Strong, which reached number fourteen on the Billboard R&B chart.The signing with Stax Records in 1966 marked a turning point in his career. Under the production of Al Jackson, Jr., he collaborated with Booker T. & the MG's, creating a series of recordings that left a significant mark on music.

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Biography

Songs like Crosscut Saw and As The Years Go Passing By became classics, and the album Born Under a Bad Sign became a masterpiece of the genre. His energy on stage was captured in the album Live Wire/Blues Power, which influenced artists such as Jimi Hendrix and Eric Clapton. Throughout his career, King also incorporated elements of funk and more complex orchestrations, which can be heard in songs like I'll Play the Blues For You from 1972.Despite health issues in his later years, Albert King continued to perform and plan tours. His legacy endures, and his influence is felt in the music of many contemporary guitarists.

He passed away on December 21, 1992, in Memphis, Tennessee, leaving an indelible impact on the world of blues.

Details

Born
25 Apr 1923
Country
🇺🇸 United States
Genre
Blues

Record labels

Atlantic

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