Born: 16 September 1925 · Died: 14 May 2015 · Age: 89
Quick facts
Date of birth16 September 1925
Date of death14 May 2015
Age at death89
NationalityAmerican
BirthplaceItta Bena, United States
Editor's Take:
King transformed electric blues guitar from a rough regional style into a sophisticated art form. His innovations—shimmering vibrato, precise string bending—became the blueprint for generations of players. What set him apart was relentless dedication: over 300 shows annually well into his seventies. His crossover from the chitlin' circuit to rock venues in the late 1960s proved blues could speak to any audience. The 1987 Rock Hall induction recognised him as architect of modern electric guitar. His influence extended across decades and genres, reaching new listeners through collaborations with U2 in 1988.
Key Milestones
1949: Began recording with Los Angeles-based RPM Records
1952: First number one hit with "3 O'Clock Blues"
1969: Opened for Rolling Stones' American Tour
1987: Inducted into Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
Riley B. King (September 16, 1925 – May 14, 2015), known professionally as B. B. King, was an American blues guitarist, singer, songwriter, and record producer.
B. B. King's birthday is September 16. He was born on September 16, 1925 in Itta Bena, United States.
How old was B. B. King when he died?
B. B. King died on May 14, 2015, aged 89.
Who shares a birthday with B. B. King?
Famous people who share B. B. King's September 16 birthday include Kuan Yew Lee, Lauren Bacall, Karl Dönitz, Frans Eemil Sillanpää and Henry V of England.
