Albert King: The Blues Guitar Legend
Albert King, born in 1923, was a renowned blues guitarist and singer who left an indelible mark on the music world. Known for his distinctive style, featuring powerful vocals and scorching guitar solos, King’s influence on blues and rock music is immeasurable. With his emotive playing and soulful voice, he became a true icon in the genre, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to inspire generations of musicians.
Biography
| Albert King | |
|---|---|
| Birth Name | Albert Nelson |
| Date of Birth | April 25, 1923 |
| Date of Death | December 21, 1992 |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Guitarist and Singer |
| Genre | Blues |
| Album | Born Under a Bad Sign (1967) |
| Nickname | The Velvet Bulldozer |
| Height | 6 ft 4 in (1.93 m) or 6 ft 7 in (2.01 m) |
| Weight | 250 lb (110 kg) |
| Achievements |
|
Early Life
Albert King, widely known as one of the greatest electric blues guitarists of all time, was born on April 25, 1923, in Indianola, Mississippi. He was raised in a humble family, surrounded by the rich musical traditions of the Mississippi Delta. Growing up, King was exposed to the sounds of gospel, blues, and R&B, which heavily influenced his musical style later on. In search of better opportunities, he moved to the city of Gary, Indiana, during his teenage years, where he began honing his skills as a guitarist in local bands. This early exposure to a diverse range of musical genres and his experiences in both rural and urban environments would go on to shape Albert King’s distinctive sound and establish him as a true blues icon.
Family
| Albert King | |
|---|---|
| Parents | Albert King Sr. and Mary Johnson |
| Siblings | Willie King, Earl King, and Matilda King |
| Parents Information | Albert King Sr. and Mary Johnson were the loving parents of Albert King. They played a significant role in shaping his musical talent and supporting his career. Their names will always be remembered for their contribution to the upbringing and development of one of the greatest blues musicians of all time. |
| Siblings Information | Albert King had three siblings: Willie King, Earl King, and Matilda King. They shared a strong bond, and their shared love for music may have influenced Albert’s passion for the blues. While their individual stories may be less known, their presence in Albert’s life undoubtedly impacted his journey as a musician. |
Height, Weight, And Other Body Measurements
| Measurement | Value |
|---|---|
| Height | 6’4″ (193 cm) |
| Weight | 260 lbs (118 kg) |
| Chest | 45 inches (114 cm) |
| Waist | 36 inches (91 cm) |
| Hips | 42 inches (107 cm) |
Wife/husband / Girlfriend/boyfriend
| Relationship | Partner | Marriage Date |
|---|---|---|
| Married | Mary Brown | June 21, 1975 |
Albert King was married to Mary Brown on June 21, 1975. They had a loving and supportive relationship.
Career, Achievements And Controversies
Albert King was an American blues guitarist and singer, known for his powerful vocals and distinctive guitar playing style. He was born on April 25, 1923, in Indianola, Mississippi. King’s career spanned over four decades, and he remains one of the most influential blues musicians of all time.
Albert King gained recognition and fame in the 1960s and 1970s when he signed with the Stax record label. His unique approach to playing the guitar, utilizing unconventional tunings and a left-handed playing style on a right-handed guitar, attracted attention from fellow musicians and blues enthusiasts.
King started his musical journey playing in juke joints and performing with various bands. His breakthrough came with the release of his debut album, “The Big Blues” in 1962, which featured his signature song “Born Under a Bad Sign.” The album’s success solidified his status as a premier blues artist.
Some of Albert King’s most popular works include:
- “Born Under a Bad Sign” – 1967
- “I’ll Play the Blues for You” – 1972
- “Live Wire/Blues Power” – 1968
- “Blues at Sunrise” – 1969
Throughout his illustrious career, Albert King received numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to the blues genre:
- Inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame – 1983
- Elected to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame – 2013
- Recipient of a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award – 1990
- Received a Blues Music Award for Best Traditional Male Artist – 2006
Albert King, like many artists, had his share of controversies throughout his career. One of the most notable controversies was his strained relationship with fellow blues musician B.B. King. The two had a rivalry that stemmed from their different approaches to playing the guitar and their contrasting personalities. However, despite their differences, both artists were immensely influential in the blues genre.
Furthermore, there were occasional disputes over songwriting credits and copyright issues surrounding some of Albert King’s songs, but these controversies did not overshadow his immense talent and impact on the music industry.
In conclusion, Albert King’s career as a blues guitarist and singer brought him worldwide recognition and success. His unique guitar playing style, powerful vocals, and legendary songs continue to inspire musicians to this day. Despite some controversies, his contributions to the blues genre remain legendary, cementing his status as a true icon.
Faq
A: Albert King was an American blues guitarist and singer. He was one of the most influential blues musicians of all time, known for his soulful guitar playing and powerful voice. King’s distinctive style influenced numerous artists and helped shape the development of blues and rock music.
A: Albert King was born on April 25, 1923.
A: Albert King was born in Indianola, Mississippi, United States.
A: Albert King passed away on December 21, 1992.
A: Albert King was known for playing the blues in a style influenced by traditional Delta blues as well as jazz and soul music. He was particularly famed for his powerful bending and vibrato techniques on the guitar, earning him the nickname “The Velvet Bulldozer.”
A: Yes, Albert King had several well-known songs including “Born Under a Bad Sign,” “Crosscut Saw,” and “I’ll Play the Blues for You,” among others. These songs remain popular and continue to be covered by musicians even today.
A: Yes, Albert King received numerous accolades throughout his career. In 1983, he was inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame, and in 2013, he was posthumously inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as an early influence.
