What Are BB King Licks?
BB King licks represent some of the most recognizable and influential phrases in all of blues and rock guitar. Known as the “King of Blues,” BB King developed a distinctive style that emphasized emotional expression over technical flash. His licks are characterized by singing, vocal-like phrasing, wide vibrato, and the strategic use of single-note lines that say more with less.
What makes BB King’s approach special is his restraint and taste. While other players filled every measure with notes, BB King let his phrases breathe. His legendary guitar “Lucille” became an extension of his voice, with every bent note and vibrato carefully placed for maximum emotional impact. Learning BB King licks teaches you not just technique, but musical maturity and the art of saying something meaningful with your playing.
Key Characteristics of BB King’s Style
What makes a lick sound like BB King? Here are the signature elements:
Expressive Vibrato: BB King’s wide, controlled vibrato is his calling card. He would often hold a single note with intense vibrato longer than most players would sustain an entire phrase. This technique adds vocal qualities and emotional depth to every note.
The Box Position: BB King favored playing in the “box” position of the minor pentatonic scale around the 12th-15th frets. This sweet spot on the fretboard gave him access to his signature bends and the sustain he needed for his expressive style.
Strategic String Bending: Rather than bending constantly, BB King chose his bends carefully. When he bent a note—especially bending the minor 3rd up to the major 3rd—it meant something. His bends were always in tune and perfectly timed for maximum impact.
Space and Timing: BB King understood the power of silence. His licks often feature pauses and rhythmic placement that create tension and release. He would play a phrase, let it ring, and then respond with another carefully crafted line.
Single-Note Focus: Unlike players who relied heavily on chords or double-stops, BB King built his vocabulary primarily on single-note lines. This gave his playing a direct, vocal quality that connected immediately with listeners.
How to Practice BB King Licks
Capturing BB King’s style requires focused attention on expression and feel:
Master Vibrato First: Before learning specific licks, develop a wide, controlled vibrato. Practice sustaining notes with vibrato at different speeds and widths. Use a tuner to ensure your vibrato doesn’t pull the note sharp or flat.
Learn to Bend in Tune: BB King’s bends were always perfectly in pitch. Practice bending with a tuner to train your ear and fingers. Most of his bends are whole-step bends from the minor 3rd to the major 3rd.
Play with Restraint: One of the hardest lessons from BB King is knowing when NOT to play. Practice his licks with the pauses and spaces intact. Don’t rush to fill every silence with notes.
Listen to the Originals: Study BB King’s recordings like “The Thrill Is Gone,” “Every Day I Have the Blues,” and “Sweet Little Angel.” Pay attention to his phrasing, timing, and how he builds intensity through repetition and variation.
Focus on One Position: Start by mastering licks in the box position around the 12th fret. BB King spent most of his career in this area of the neck, so getting comfortable here is essential to capturing his sound.
Learn BB King Licks Below
Explore our collection of BB King guitar licks below. Each lesson breaks down his signature techniques, shows you the exact fret positions, and helps you develop the vibrato and bending control that made BB King a legend.