Are you someone who appreciates the soul-stirring melodies of the blues?
If that’s the case, then you’re likely no stranger to the legendary figure known as B.B. King—a true icon of the genre.
His songs have left an indelible mark on the music industry, and numerous artists have paid tribute to his timeless creations.
Over the years, his music has struck a chord with countless fans, and his influence remains potent even in the present day.
Within the pages of this article, we’ll intimately examine 14 of B.B. King’s most exceptional songs—the epitome of his greatest hits.
Enjoy our picks of the best B.B. King Songs!
1. “The Thrill Is Gone”
A classic blues track that still brings a chill to the spine, “The Thrill Is Gone” is a song that’s been around for generations.
It was written by Roy Hawkins and Rick Darnell, and released by B.B. King in 1969.
The song was an immediate hit on the Billboard R&B Chart, reaching the number one spot and remaining there for five weeks.
With its poignant lyrics that touch on the blues of love lost, the song is full of emotion and soul.
King’s signature guitar work and deep vocal delivery make it an unforgettable classic of blues music.
The song has since been covered by many artists, and it remains one of King’s most beloved and critically acclaimed songs to this day.
2. “Paying The Cost To Be The Boss”
You can’t beat the bluesy sound of “Paying The Cost To Be The Boss”!
The track has a steady, rolling rhythm that drives the song forward and builds a strong sense of momentum.
King’s guitar playing is top-notch, as he uses his trademark vibrato technique to great effect throughout the track.
The lyrics of the song are filled with a powerful message of standing up for what you believe in and not letting anyone push you around.
“Paying The Cost To Be The Boss” is a classic of blues music and a testament to King’s incredible skill as a musician and songwriter.
3. “Sweet Little Angel”
“Sweet Little Angel” is a classic blues cut featuring B.B. King’s signature guitar licks that’ll have you swaying along in no time!
King’s style of blues playing is evident in the song, with its driving beat and signature guitar riffs.
The song has a slow, soulful feel to it, with King’s voice perfectly complementing his guitar playing.
His guitar solo in the middle of the song is one of the most memorable and recognizable in blues music.
“Sweet Little Angel” is a blues classic and a must-listen for any fan of the genre.
4. “How Blue Can You Get?”
There’s no denying that B.B. King’s “How Blue Can You Get?” is a bluesy masterpiece that perfectly captures the soulful depth of the genre.
Drawing on a sense of despair and hopelessness, the song is an exploration of the depths of sadness and loneliness.
King’s vocal delivery is full of raw emotion, and the guitar solo is a perfect accompaniment to the lyrical content.
The song is a timeless classic and one of King’s most beloved songs.
It’s been covered by many different artists over the years, demonstrating just how influential the song has been in the realm of blues music.
“How Blue Can You Get?” is a true blues classic and a standout track in B.B. King’s expansive discography.
5. “Ain’t Nobody Home”
“Ain’t Nobody Home” by B.B. King is a masterful example of the blues genre, showcasing the legendary musician’s trademark guitar licks and vocal delivery.
The song is filled with emotion and heartache, as King pleads to an empty house with his powerful and heartfelt lyrics.
The guitar solos that punctuate the chorus provide a cathartic release for the listener and serve as a reminder of King’s mastery of the instrument.
The overall feeling of the song is one of both pain and resilience, and its timelessness is what makes it one of the great B.B. King songs of all time.
6. “You Upset Me Baby”
You never fail to deliver a powerful performance, and “You Upset Me Baby” is no exception.
This blues classic is one of B.B. King’s most popular songs, the song features his signature blues guitar licks and a heartfelt vocal performance.
B.B. King’s guitar playing is especially noteworthy on this track, with his signature vibrato giving the song an extra layer of emotion and intensity.
The song’s emotional appeal and King’s trademark guitar riffs make it one of the best BB King songs of all time.
7. “Sweet Sixteen”
Boogie on down to “Sweet Sixteen”, the classic B.B. King tune that’ll have you movin’ and groovin’ all night long.
This blues-rock classic showcases King’s signature guitar licks and powerful vocal range.
Its signature riff is an iconic guitar lick that has been copied and sampled by multiple artists over the years.
The song is largely considered one of King’s most iconic and influential recordings and has been covered by everyone from John Mayer to Eric Clapton.
The song is an upbeat and infectious track that captures the very essence of the blues, and its popularity has remained strong throughout the years.
8. “Three O’Clock Blues”
You’ll be singing and swaying along to “Three O’Clock Blues”, B.B. King’s beloved and well-known classic.
This jazzy blues jam will have you tapping your feet and humming the melody all night.
The song features an upbeat tempo and catchy guitar riffs that draw the listener in.
King’s vocals provide a soulful feel to the song, while the lyrics tell a story of feeling lonely and isolated despite the fact that it’s three o’clock in the morning.
The combination of King’s vocals and the instrumentals creates an irresistible groove, making it easy to understand why this song has become one of the most popular of King’s career.
“Three O’Clock Blues” is sure to become a timeless classic.
9. “Every Day I Have The Blues”
Feel the blues in your bones as you listen to B.B. King’s iconic song, “Every Day I Have The Blues”.
The song is an essential part of the blues genre with its distinct and recognizable guitar riffs and King’s signature growling vocals.
He often changed the lyrics and melody of the song while performing, showcasing his improvisational skills.
The deep, melancholy sound of the song speaks to the feelings of loneliness and loss that the blues often conveys.
“Every Day I Have The Blues” is a classic B.B. King song and a perfect example of his undeniable talent and the power of the blues.
10. “I Woke Up This Morning”
You can’t help but sway along as you listen to B.B. King’s classic “I Woke Up This Morning”.
The song perfectly encapsulates the blues genre with its distinct guitar riffs and King’s soulful vocals.
His performance is sublime, filled with emotion as he wails about his sorrow.
King’s guitar playing is equally as impressive, as he teases out notes that are both plaintive and passionate.
He builds to a powerful crescendo, every note testifying to his pain and anguish.
All combined, “I Woke Up This Morning” is an undeniable classic and one of the best BB King songs of all time.
11. “Please Love Me”
You’re sure to be moved by B.B. King’s heartfelt plea to be loved in “Please Love Me”, one of his most beloved songs.
Although it’s a simple blues song, it’s full of emotion and passion that showcases King’s vocal range and guitar-playing prowess.
The lyrics are simple and to the point, yet they contain a deep and powerful message.
The guitar solo is equally as powerful, with King’s signature vibrato and bending techniques.
The combination of the two creates an unforgettable sound that’s sure to make listeners emotional and reflective.
The song is a timeless classic that has become one of the best B.B. King songs of all time.
12. “Why I Sing The Blues”
“Why I Sing The Blues” stands as an anthem that resonates with blues enthusiasts worldwide, showcasing the prowess of B.B. King’s vocals and his soulful guitar riffs.
This song captures the essence of music’s transformative power, serving as a conduit for storytelling and shared experiences.
King’s poignant lyrics convey the challenges faced in life and the unwavering resolve to conquer them, instilling a sense of hope in those who may feel lost.
Through his music, King offers a glimpse into his own journey, inspiring listeners to persevere through adversity, no matter how daunting it may seem.
13. “Rock Me Baby”
Prepare to be captivated by the timeless appeal of B.B. King’s classic hit, “Rock Me Baby”, as the song resonates with its powerful blend of bluesy melodies and heartfelt vocals.
King’s voice exudes raw emotion, while his masterful guitar licks add a touch of enchantment, infusing the composition with depth and richness.
Every note is meticulously crafted to create a crescendo of tension, evoking a profound sense of yearning.
As the song unfolds, the intensity escalates, culminating in a climactic moment where King’s guitar prowess shines brilliantly.
It comes as no surprise that “Rock Me Baby” has solidified its position as one of B.B. King’s most revered and cherished hits of all time.
14. “Hummingbird”
Immerse yourself in the profound emotion and captivating essence of “Hummingbird” by B.B. King, as the song unfolds with the soul-stirring strums of his guitar and his heartfelt vocal delivery.
Within this composition, King masterfully blends elements of blues, jazz, and country music, showcasing his distinctive and inventive guitar-playing style.
“Hummingbird” unveils a tapestry of intricate rhythms and intertwining guitar solos, providing a compelling testament to King’s remarkable talent and musicianship.
The undeniable intensity and potency of this song have solidified its enduring popularity, as it continues to resonate with listeners as one of King’s most beloved creations throughout the years.
Best BB King Songs – Final Thoughts
You’ve heard the best of the best when it comes to B.B. King’s music.
From his emotional blues ballads to his upbeat classic rock hits, this masterful artist has left an indelible mark on music history.
His songs have touched the lives of millions and will continue to do so for generations to come.
B.B. King’s music is timeless, and his greatest hits are sure to remain in the hearts of music fans for years to come.
Whether you’re humming along to “The Thrill Is Gone” or singing along to “Hummingbird”, you’ll be filled with a feeling of joy and appreciation for the music of one of the greatest blues musicians of all time.
You may also like: Jazz Songs of All Time
