Gibson confirms new Epiphone B.B. King Lucille model and more!
New model expected in October
News that the B.B. King Music Company, who manage the estate of B.B. King and work on behalf of the King Family Trust, and Gibson have revitalised their partnership, means that a new Epiphone B.B. King Lucille model is imminent. There may even be more collaborations going forwards. Here’s what we know so far.
Epiphone B.B. King Lucille
The all new Epiphone B.B. King Lucille was first teased earlier this year by guitarist Emily Wolfe, when she also revealed her new Epiphone Sheraton Stealth Signature model. The new model should be available in October and will certainly please fans of the late blues guitarist. It also sets up a potential new line of B.B. King-related instruments from Gibson.
It has been a pleasure working with the Gibson team in developing a new line of B.B. King Signature Lucille guitars. – Vassal Benford, Chairman of the B.B. King Music Company
Epiphone Specifications?
Epiphone has yet to share all the official specifications of the guitar, but expect to see a TP6 tailpiece with fine tuners and the updated Epiphone headstock shape. Also, it will come in the classic ebony finish we’ve come to associate with this model. The official release date for the new Epiphone B.B. King Lucille is October 19, so hopefully we will know more about this new model very soon.
One of the original B.B. King Lucille models · Source: Julien’s Auction
Custom Shop versions?
As Gibson is all about getting as much from an artist as possible, I expect there are more releases of Lucille models planned for the future. It’s possible we could see a Custom Shop version before the year is out and maybe even a USA-built standard edition, too.
“B.B. King is a cornerstone of Gibson’s music history, and we are honored to bring his legendary music and persona to a new audience. From high-end Gibson Custom Shop guitars to more accessible Epiphone models we will be offering beautiful guitars for every fan to help carry on his vast music legacy.” – Elizabeth Heidt, VP of Cultural Influence-Global, Gibson Brands
B.B. King Legacy Initiative
The extensive official list below gives you a good idea of how much is in the pipeline. As you can see, there is a new B.B. King – King of The Blues movie, a B.B. King Experience Tour 2022, along with a B.B. King Documentary Series and expansions to the B.B. King Museum in Indianola, MS.
- B.B. King – King of The Blues – The Movie.
- New Music Releases in multiple genres; Traditional, EDM, Hip-Hop, Country.
- B.B. King Experience Tour 2022.
- B.B. KING 24 Hour Blues TV Channel.
- B.B. King Documentary Series, interviewing industry icons.
- B.B. King New Educational Initiatives.
- Expansion of the B.B. King Museum in Indianola, MS.
- Expanded B.B. King merchandising.
Blues Master
It’s nice to see B.B.’s legacy being carried on, and 2022 promises to be a great year to celebrate the man’s career and music. Let’s hope the younger generation, that missed out on his music the first time around, will be inspired by his unique voice and beautiful phrasing.
Do yourself a solid and go put Live At The Regal and Live In Cook Country Jail on your record player, stereo, smartphone playlist, or mp3 player and listen to the Beale Street Blues Boy do his thing!
More Information on B.B. King Lucille
Gibson Video
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One response to “Gibson confirms new Epiphone B.B. King Lucille model and more!”
I know Gibson fell flat on its arse when it tried to look too far forward (self tuners, ‘robot’ guitars and all the rest of it), but it now seems to be completely obsessed with the past.