BB King Breaks His Silence: The Untold Truth About Elvis Presley, Their Secret Vegas Nights, and the Rumors That Shook America.

In a rare and insightful interview, legendary blues musician BB King shared his thoughts on Elvis Presley, revealing a depth of understanding and respect for the King of Rock and Roll that many might not expect.

As one of the few Memphis musicians who knew Elvis during the early days of his career, BB King’s reflections provide a unique perspective on the man behind the music.

BB King first met Elvis in a Memphis studio, where he often went to record.

He recalls Elvis as a shy young man who was always polite and respectful.

“He was handsome, good-looking, but I didn’t think too much about his playing or singing at the time,” BB King admitted.

“He was okay, but I didn’t see at that time what I saw later on.”

This initial impression changed as Elvis’s career progressed, and BB began to recognize the talent and charisma that would make Elvis a global icon.

King, who earned his nickname “Beale Street Blues Boy” while working at the Memphis radio station WDIA, noted that Elvis was not just another musician; he was someone who would watch and learn from those around him.

“He would talk. He would watch. He didn’t ask questions a lot, but he would watch,” King recalled.

This observation highlights the humility and curiosity that characterized Elvis’s early years in the music industry.

As Elvis transitioned from Sun Records to RCA and skyrocketed to fame in 1956, BB King began to take notice.

“When he started to do the things that he started to do later, then he started to turn heads, including mine,” King said.

He recognized that Elvis possessed not only good looks but also a unique talent that captivated audiences.

“He had everything. The looks, the talent. I mean, he had everything,” King remarked, emphasizing the multifaceted appeal of Elvis Presley.

In December 1956, Elvis and BB King were photographed together at the WDIA Goodwill Review, an annual charity event that showcased black artists and raised funds for children in need.

This event was significant, as it highlighted Elvis’s willingness to cross racial boundaries during a time when such actions were not common.

BB King reflected on Elvis’s decision to attend the all-black event, stating, “For a young white boy to show up in an all-black function took guts.

I believe he was showing his roots and he seemed proud of those roots.”

Despite being a major star, Elvis wanted to remain low-key at the event, demonstrating his respect for the performers and the audience.

When he was introduced on stage by Rufus Thomas, the crowd erupted in excitement, showcasing the warm reception he received from the black community.

In the wake of Elvis’s rise to fame, rumors began to circulate within the black community, suggesting that he had made disparaging remarks about African Americans.

BB King addressed these rumors head-on, stating, “I don’t think he ripped them off.

I think once something has been exposed, anyone can add or take from it if they like.”

He firmly believed that Elvis did not steal music but rather interpreted the music he loved in his own unique way.

Elvis himself responded to these rumors in a 1957 interview with Jet magazine, where he stated, “I never said anything like that, and people who know me know I wouldn’t have said it.”

His comments were supported by several black musicians who attested to his respect and appreciation for their contributions to music.

BB King also shared fond memories of his friendship with Elvis, particularly during the 1970s when they would spend time together in Las Vegas.

“He put in a call for me and I worked in a lounge to standing room only,” King recalled.

After performances, they would often retreat to Elvis’s suite to play music together, with King affectionately referring to their collaboration as “the original Blues Brothers.”

Despite the challenges and controversies surrounding Elvis’s legacy, BB King held no grudges.

He praised Elvis for his integrity and influence on music, stating, “To me, they didn’t make a mistake when they called him the king.”

BB King’s reflections on Elvis Presley provide a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of race and music in America during the 1950s and beyond.

His insights reveal a deep respect for Elvis as an artist and a person who transcended racial boundaries through his music.