Photos and words by Filip Zalewski

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Sunday 2/16/20 featured an extra special, star studded show at The Capitol Theatre. A tribute concert to B.B King, legendary iconic blues guitarist. One who influenced the sound and progression of blues guitar as well as inspiring generations of blues guitarists. This tribute was held for many to pay their respects to one of the greatest blues legends, to some he was their close friend, and to some it was an opportunity to dive deep into blues with an unbelievable line up of musicians.

Robert Randolph on the electric slide guitar.

The night started of with an introduction by the legendary Wavy-Gravy including an anecdote about how B.B King gave Wavy his name. The first set featured masterful blues featuring legendary artists and even B.B King’s granddaughter.

Legendary Merry Prankster Wavy Gravy recalls how B.B King gave him his name.

The house band featured Steve Jordan, who was also the musical director for the show, Pino Palladino, Reverend Charles Hodges, Isaiah Sharkey, as well as the “Icy-Hot” Horns section. The full line up of musicians was impressive: Ann Wilson, Buddy Guy, Bob Margolin, Christone, “KINGFISH” Ingram, David Hidalgo, Derek Trucks, Ivan Neville, Jamey Johnson, Jimmie Vaughan, John Scofield, Little Steven, Robert Cray, Robert Randolph, Shemekia Copeland, Susan Tedeschi, Tony TC Coleman, Val B. King, Warren Haynes, William Bell. Wow!

Buddy Guy pays his respects to the King.

The night consisted of B.B King classic’s like “Thrill Is Gone”, “Stormy Monday”, & “Everyday I Have The Blues”. Ann Wilson’s lyrics really stood out on “When Love Comes To Town” accompanied by an electric Robert Randolph. Buddy Guy was rather unique, but entertaining and light. Derek & Susan were really spot on. Warren Hanes even made an appearance, providing some soul filled blues vocals and ofcourse guitar. KINGFISH is a new blood on the blues scene but the got to play legendary B.B King guitar “Lucielle”.


Buddy Guy, Derek Trucks, Ann Wilson & more!

The show went on for quite some time and the arrangements of musicians changed every song or two, so it was as if there was a new band every couple of songs, with a new legendary musician.

ALL of the musicians on stage.

The night ended with all of the musicians, yes all! There was maybe 9 guitarsts plugged in at the same time… and these included the likes of Warren Hanes, Derek Trucks, Buddy Guy… What a night!