A number of new initiatives have been announced by the B.B. King Music Company, the rights owner for the likeness and trademarks of the great blues figurehead, to bring his music and legacy to new generations of admirers.
On behalf of the King Family Trust, the company has confirmed a revitalized partnership with revered guitar brand Gibson to launch a new Epiphone model next month, as well as the launch of the B.B. King Icon Life Legacy Initiatives. Gibson has also launched a new tribute video to B.B. to mark what would have been his 96th birthday on September 16:
Vassal Benford, the chairman of the B.B. King Music Company, says the initiatives are part of extensive new work to preserve the guitarist’s formidable musical and cultural contribution. “It has been a pleasure working with the Gibson team in developing a new line of B.B. King Signature Lucille guitars,” says Benford.
“I am especially proud of the forthcoming new Epiphone guitar and delivering a true work of art that will be broadly accessible, awakening B.B. King’s life and legacy to new artists. Gibson is a tremendous partner and they have demonstrated a sincere alignment with our mission to not only preserve the legacy of B.B. King, but to expose new artists to his music.
“This is just the beginning,” the executive continues. “A theatrical release biopic movie [King of the Blues] is near production, as well as the creation of the B.B. King Experience as a touring show, and a residency experience in Las Vegas. We will also be creating a new catalog of music collaborations with contemporary artists, and several lines of new B.B. King products are in development. We are looking forward to October 19, 2021, official launch of the new Epiphone Lucille guitar with Gibson, plus much more.”
Elizabeth Heidt, VP of Cultural Influence-Global, Gibson Brands, adds: “B.B. King is a cornerstone of Gibson’s music history, and we are honored to bring his legendary music and persona to a new audience. From high-end Gibson Custom Shop guitars to more accessible Epiphone models we will be offering beautiful guitars for every fan to help carry on his vast music legacy.”
The B.B. King Legacy initiative will also bring a series of new music releases to new and existing fans across multiple genres, created with multiple contemporary artists. These may include brand new songs featuring his lyrics, remixes, and new collaborations created from his masters.
The B.B. King Legacy Initiative will include the following below and more:
B.B. King – King of The Blues – The Movie;
New music releases in multiple genres; traditional, EDM, hip-hop, country;
B.B. King Experience Tour 2022;
B.B. King 24 Hour Blues TV Channel;
B.B. King documentary series, interviewing industry icons;
B.B. King new educational initiatives;
Expansion of the B.B. King Museum in Indianola, MS;
Expanded B.B. King merchandising.
Listen to uDiscover Music’s B.B. King Essential playlist.
