The King still reigns: B.B. King comes to Birchmere

When BB King started playing the blues more than half a century ago while standing on Mississippi street corners, his exuberance and talent prompted passersby to toss him dimes.

Even though he’s now one of the most-revered, talented and cherished entertainers today, fans note he arguably still plays with the zest and enthusiasm he brought to music lovers all those years ago. At age 83, King plays about four shows a week and doesn’t grant many interviews, perhaps because he’s said it all; now he just wants to let the music speak for him. According to fans and critics alike, the man’s lightening fast fingers — which he calls an extension of his soul — are still as nimble as ever.