Happy 100th Birthday to Albert King

One hundred years ago today, in Indianola Mississippi, Albert King was born. He was one of the pioneers of electic blues, and is still considered to this day one of the greatest guitar players of all time. 

Albert King

Albert King played a Flying V guitar upside-down. That is, he played a right handed guitar lefty. Thin strings on top, thick strings on the bottom. This allowed him to use his strength to bend strings where most could not. Nicknamed "The Velvet Bulldozer" due to his smooth singing, his large size, and for driving a bulldozer in a previous job. 

An influential musician, younger guitar played looked up to Albert King. Most notably Stevie Ray Vaughan. The two collaborated in 1983 to produce the album In Session. 

Stevie Ray Vaughan and Albert King 1983

Albert King most famous song is probably Born Under a Bad Sign but my personal favorite is most likely As The Years Go Passing By but it often changes. 

Albert King was able to produce a massive sound with his guitar, Lucy, that many have tried to replicate but none have been able to perfect. He is often missed and is constantly appreciated. 

So here's to you, Albert. Happy 100th birthday!