Joe Bonamassa Releases Six Tracks from ‘B.B. King’s Blues Summit 100’
Joe Bonamassa has unveiled the next six songs from the groundbreaking tribute project, “B.B. King’s Blues Summit 100,” in honor of B.B. King’s 100th birthday. This latest release, Vol. II, features a diverse lineup of special guests including Gary Clark Jr., Keb’ Mo’, Joanne Shaw Taylor, Paul Rodgers, Aloe Blacc, and Train’s Pat Monahan. These artists each bring their unique styles and interpretations to classic B.B. King tracks.
One of the standout tracks on Vol. II is “Chains And Things,” featuring the incredible talent of Gary Clark Jr. Clark’s performance resonates with a deep reverence for the song and its significance in the blues genre. Another unexpected gem is “Think It Over,” which showcases Train’s Pat Monahan and guitarist Chris Buck. Monahan’s approach to the song reflects his rock roots and pays homage to the influence of blues on the rock ‘n’ roll genre.
Keb’ Mo’ adds warmth and depth to “I’ll Survive,” a song that showcases his undeniable talent and deep connection to the blues. Joanne Shaw Taylor delivers a vibrant rendition of “Bad Case of Love,” infusing the track with energy and vitality. Paul Rodgers lends his iconic voice to “Night Life,” demonstrating his respect for B.B. King’s legacy and the significance of the song.
The album closes with Aloe Blacc’s soulful and contemporary take on “So Excited,” bringing a fresh perspective to one of B.B. King’s most energetic songs. Each artist on Vol. II offers a unique interpretation of B.B. King’s music while honoring his enduring legacy and influence on the blues genre.
The initial launch of B.B. King’s Blues Summit 100 set the tone for the project, with performances from Michael McDonald, Susan Tedeschi, Derek Trucks, and more. This tribute project aims to celebrate B.B. King’s legacy and influence, bringing together artists from different generations and genres to pay homage to the King of the Blues.
Joe Bonamassa and co-producer Josh Smith set out to create a lasting tribute to B.B. King, uniting artists who share a deep connection to King’s music. The full 32-track album, set for release on February 6th, 2026, features collaborations from Buddy Guy, Shemekia Copeland, Slash, and many others. These artists bring their unique talents to the project, creating a diverse and powerful collection of songs that reflect B.B. King’s enduring influence.
As Bonamassa notes, B.B. King was a central figure in the blues world, and this tribute project serves as a fitting homage to his legacy. The project’s title, “Blues Summit 100,” pays tribute to King’s Grammy-winning 1993 album while expanding on the collaborative spirit of that project. With contributions from a wide range of artists, this tribute project celebrates B.B. King’s music and legacy in a comprehensive and impactful way.