Albert King

Albert King, a prominent blues and rock guitarist, is considered a major influence on musicians like Otis Rush, Eric Clapton, and Stevie Ray Vaughan. His unique left-handed playing style and massive tone distinguish him as one of the most important blues guitarists. Born in Indianola, Mississippi, Albert King taught himself to play guitar as a child and began his career by playing with gospel groups before transitioning to the blues scene. He signed with Stax Records in 1966, where he recorded with Booker T. & the MG's and achieved crossover success with hits like "Laundromat Blues" and "Born Under a Bad Sign."

Throughout the '70s and '80s, Albert King continued to tour and record, releasing albums that showcased his distinctive blend of blues, soul, and funk. After leaving Stax Records, he signed with Utopia and later Tomato Records, where he refined his sound and focused on a straight blues direction. Despite announcing his retirement in the mid-'80s, King remained an active performer until his sudden death from a heart attack in 1992. His legacy lives on as one of the most influential and distinctive blues guitarists in music history.