What's Happening?
Robert Jr. Lockwood, a blues guitarist with a storied lineage including stepfather Robert Johnson, is credited with significantly influencing and transforming B.B. King's guitar playing. According to a 1986 interview with Guitar World, Lockwood recalled
a young B.B. King approaching him in Memphis for help with his guitar skills. Lockwood initially found King's playing to be 'terrible' and 'no fun to play with' but eventually agreed to help him. King, in his early twenties at the time, was described as having a good beat and tempo that audiences enjoyed, but his technical skill was lacking. Lockwood claims he stayed with King for about two years before moving to Chicago, stating, 'I’m responsible for him being what he is today.' King himself acknowledged Lockwood's contribution, noting that his head was 'like a sponge' and he wanted to learn everything Lockwood did. King also mentioned that Lockwood played blues in a way he admired and could even play jazz standards like Count Basie's 'One O'Clock Jump' on the guitar, a feat King himself couldn't master.
Why It's Important?
This account highlights the crucial role of mentorship and peer influence in the development of legendary musical artists. Robert Jr. Lockwood's direct impact on B.B. King's guitar technique underscores that even iconic figures benefit from guidance and learning from others. This interaction shaped King into the 'King of the Blues,' influencing countless musicians and the trajectory of blues music. The story illustrates how the transmission of knowledge and skill within a musical community, particularly in the formative years of an artist, can have profound and lasting effects on their career and the genre itself. It also emphasizes the collaborative, albeit sometimes challenging, nature of artistic growth, where initial reluctance can give way to a transformative learning experience. The blues scene in cities like Memphis and Chicago served as vital incubators for such exchanges, fostering a rich environment for musical evolution.
What's Next?
While the direct interaction between Lockwood and King is historical, the legacy of their musical exchange continues to influence blues and rock guitarists. Future analyses of blues history and guitar technique will likely continue to reference this pivotal relationship, offering insights into the development of B.B. King's distinctive style. Music educators and historians may further explore the specific techniques and musical concepts Lockwood imparted to King, potentially leading to new interpretations of King's early work. The story also serves as an enduring example for aspiring musicians about the value of seeking out mentors and the dedication required to master an instrument, even for those who would become legends. The ongoing study of blues music will undoubtedly continue to uncover and emphasize such foundational relationships.
Beyond the Headlines
The narrative of Robert Jr. Lockwood and B.B. King delves into the deeper cultural and historical context of blues music development in the United States. It illustrates how musical traditions are passed down through direct interaction and apprenticeship, often in informal settings. Lockwood's connection to Robert Johnson, a mythical figure in blues history, adds another layer to this lineage, suggesting a continuous thread of influence that shaped the genre. This story also touches on the humility required for even talented individuals to acknowledge their need for improvement and seek guidance. It underscores the idea that musical genius is not always born fully formed but is often cultivated through diligent learning and the generosity of more experienced artists. The evolution of blues from regional styles to a nationally recognized genre was heavily reliant on these personal connections and the sharing of musical knowledge.
