Joe Bonamassa to Perform at B.B. King’s Blues Summit 100
Joe Bonamassa recently announced the release of a groundbreaking tribute album in honor of what would have been B.B. King’s 100th birthday. The album, titled B.B. King’s Blues Summit 100, is a collaborative effort produced by Bonamassa and Josh Smith. This extraordinary project aims to celebrate the legacy of the legendary musician. Released under KTBA Records, the album will feature 32 songs, with the first five tracks already available for music enthusiasts to enjoy. More tracks are scheduled for release over the coming months, leading up to the full digital album, as well as the Double CD and Triple LP Vinyl, hitting the shelves on February 6th, 2026.
Bonamassa expressed his admiration for B.B. King, stating, “Very few people in music define the genre in which they flourish, and B.B. King is one of them.” He emphasized King’s exceptional role in shaping the blues genre, serving as an inspiration to artists worldwide. The album includes reimagined versions of King’s most iconic songs performed by a diverse array of musicians, including Michael McDonald, Susan Tedeschi, Derek Trucks, Bobby Rush, George Benson, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, and D.K. Harrell.
The idea for the tribute album came to Bonamassa upon realizing the lack of major plans to celebrate B.B. King’s milestone birthday. With the blessing of the King estate, Bonamassa reached out to a broad network of artists whose lives had been influenced by King’s music. The project features contributions from renowned names such as Buddy Guy, Keb’ Mo’, Slash, Shemekia Copeland, Marcus King, Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, Larkin Poe, and Warren Haynes, among others. Each artist was carefully matched with material that resonated with them personally, resulting in a unique and heartfelt interpretation of King’s catalog.
The album not only pays homage to King’s musical legacy but also celebrates his enduring spirit of love, unity, and joy. It aims to introduce new audiences to the timeless appeal of the blues. Bonamassa, who shared a special bond with King since opening for him at the age of 12, credits the blues titan with mentoring him and shaping his musical journey. He emphasized the importance of preserving the emotional authenticity of King’s work, ensuring that each track was given the care and attention it deserved.
For many of the artists involved, the project offered a chance to reflect on King’s cultural significance and personal impact. Stories shared by musicians like Bobby Rush, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, and Marcus King underscored the profound influence King had on generations of artists across different genres. The album’s title, a reference to King’s own Grammy-winning album Blues Summit, signifies a meaningful continuation of King’s legacy and his dedication to keeping the blues alive.
As fans eagerly await the full release of B.B. King’s Blues Summit 100 on February 6th, 2026, they can enjoy the first five tracks available on all digital platforms. With six more songs set for monthly release leading up to the album’s launch, this tribute album promises to honor the King of the Blues in a fitting and unforgettable way.