B.B. King, Reigning “King of the Blues,” Returns to the State Theatre by Popular Demand, Friday, May 18, 2012

MINNEAPOLIS—B.B. King, a living legend on guitar and vocals universally hailed as the reigning “King of the Blues,” returns to Minneapolis by popular demand to play Hennepin Theatre Trust’s State Theatre at 8 p.m. on Friday, May 18, 2012. This May appearance follows two enthusiastically received shows including a sold-out engagement with Buddy Guy. Tickets go on sale at Noon on Friday, Dec. 9. An opening act will be announced later. To purchase tickets and for more information visit www.HennepinTheatreTrust.org or call 1.800.982.2787.

Hailing from the blues-rich Mississippi Delta, B.B. King is the single most important electric guitarist of the last half century and his innovative bent notes and staccato picking style have influenced generations of blues and rock guitarists. He and his guitar "Lucille" have thrilled audiences with countless hits including "Sweet Sixteen” and "Every Day I Have The Blues," helping to give the blues its special place in the American musical tradition.

His gritty and memorable voice—capable of wringing every nuance from any lyric—provides a worthy match for his passionate playing. Some of his memorable tunes include “Rock Me Baby,” “Payin’ the Cost to Be the Boss,” “How Blue Can You Get” and “Let The Good Times Roll.” Between 1951 and 1985, King notched an impressive 74 entries on Billboard's R&B charts, and he was one of the few full-fledged blues artists to score a major pop hit when his 1970 smash "The Thrill Is Gone" crossed over to mainstream success.

From that time, he has partnered with such musicians as Eric Clapton and U2, while managing his own acclaimed solo career. King received Kennedy Center Honors in 1995, was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom (the highest award for civilians in the United States) by President Bush in 2006, holds seven honorary doctorates and has received fifteen Grammy Awards throughout his illustrious career.

TICKET INFORMATION
B.B. King performs at 8 p.m. on Friday, May 18, 2012 at Hennepin Theatre Trust’s State Theatre (805 Hennepin Avenue, Mpls., 55402). Tickets go on sale at Noon on Friday, Dec. 9, 2011 and range from $51.50 to $66.50 depending on seating preference. All prices include applicable facility fees. Additional service charges may apply. Tickets may be purchased in person at the State Theatre Box Office (805 Hennepin Avenue, Minneapolis, 55402), online at HennepinTheatreTrust.org, by calling 1.800.982.2787 or visiting a Ticketmaster Center.