B.B. King at Stamford’s Palace

It wasn’t the first, nor the last time I heard him play. But it was truly memorable. It was at Union’s Memorial Chapel… and in between sets I went back stage (it wasn’t a big deal back then). And there he was sitting in a plain folding chair… legs spread apart to support his substantial frame… sipping a diet drink. I trembled as I approached him and mumbled how much I loved his music. A big smile spread on his kind face… he said a simple “I thank you kindly” and shook my hand. And what a hand! It simply encased mine.

That was when I met B.B. King.

He is 78 years young. Today he suffers from diabetes and his walk looked labored when he came on stage at the Palace… and he played while sitting amiably… and when the horns went off stage for the second set, he was joined in chairs by 2 guitars and a bass… and the blues played was pure. His voice was not quite clear… he was recovering from the flu; but he still soared working his way thru The Thrill is Gone.

And I can tell you what… the thrill is not gone!

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