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Were Albert King and BB King Related?

Published in Blues Musicians 2 mins read

No, blues legends Albert King and B.B. King were not related by blood. Despite sharing the iconic surname "King" and often being grouped in discussions about blues royalty, their connection was purely musical, not familial.

The Truth Behind the Shared Surname

For many years, there was a common misconception, sometimes fueled intentionally, that Albert King and B.B. King were brothers or otherwise family. However, this was never the case. Their parallel careers and immense influence on blues guitar were purely coincidental regarding their ancestry.

Albert King's Strategic Stage Name

Albert King, born Albert Nelson, deliberately adopted the stage name "Albert King" as he sought to establish his career. This was a strategic move to align himself with the more established and famous B.B. King, who was already a prominent figure in the blues world at the time. Albert even told people he was B.B. King's brother, leveraging the perception of a familial tie to gain recognition and advance his own musical endeavors.

Key Facts About Their Non-Relationship

To clarify any lingering doubts, here's a quick overview of their relationship:

Aspect Details
Shared Surname Yes, both adopted "King" as their professional surname.
Blood Relation None whatsoever; they were not family members.
Albert King's Claim He publicly stated he was B.B. King's brother.
Purpose of Claim To build recognition by associating with B.B. King's fame.
Individual Impact Both independently became groundbreaking blues guitarists.

Distinct Blues Legacies

Both Albert King and B.B. King forged highly influential and distinct paths in blues music. While Albert King was known for his powerful, often bent-note style played on a Flying V guitar (which he played left-handed but strung upside down), B.B. King was celebrated for his soulful vibrato, single-note solos, and his iconic guitar, "Lucille." Their legacies stand tall individually, showcasing their unique contributions to the genre, unburdened by any actual familial ties.