Joe Bonamassa discusses BB King tribute and managing his music business.
Joe Bonamassa is someone who doesn’t wait for opportunities to come to him; instead, he takes the reins and directs his own career. With almost a quarter-century in the music industry, Joe has been the driving force behind his success as a blues-rock guitarist and vocalist. When the milestone of his mentor B.B. King’s 100th birthday approached, Joe decided to honor the legend in a big way. He spearheaded a 32-song tribute album to B.B. King, enlisting over 30 musicians, including legends like Eric Clapton, Buddy Guy, and George Benson.
Reflecting on the inspiration behind the tribute, Joe expressed his desire to acknowledge B.B. King’s legacy, especially when there seemed to be a lack of significant celebrations planned. Joe’s latest album, “B.B. King’s Blues Summit: 100,” has been highly anticipated and marks a significant moment in his career. Having been mentored by B.B. King from a young age and opening for the blues icon, Joe holds a deep connection to the genre. He sees himself as a bridge between generations, striving to uphold the tradition of the blues.
The importance of passing on the blues legacy is not lost on Joe, as he recognizes the impact of icons like B.B. King and Eric Clapton on his own career trajectory. Working alongside younger musicians like Marcus King and Kingfish on the tribute record, Joe aims to pay tribute to the past while propelling the blues genre forward. He acknowledges that every few years, a new artist emerges to invigorate the blues scene, injecting fresh energy and reaching a wider audience.
Known for his extensive guitar collection, Joe is a self-proclaimed guitar aficionado who prioritizes quality over quantity. With a new live album and film set for release, recorded in the hometown of Rory Gallagher, Joe’s dedication to his craft remains unwavering. Despite a busy touring schedule and recording sessions, Joe values the importance of slowing down and prioritizing his well-being, especially as he approaches his 50s.
In managing his career, Joe and his manager formed J&L Adventures, allowing them to oversee all aspects of his professional endeavors. This vertically integrated approach empowers Joe to bet on himself and maintain control over his business decisions. By minimizing the involvement of external entities like agents and promoters, Joe maximizes his profits and autonomy in the music industry.
Despite being nominated for multiple Grammy awards and never winning, Joe remains unfazed by the lack of recognition. Drawing inspiration from artists like The Beach Boys and Jimi Hendrix, who also never received Grammy accolades, Joe emphasizes that the true measure of success lies in his ability to connect with audiences and deliver exceptional performances. His unyielding confidence and dedication to preserving the blues genre underscore Joe Bonamassa’s enduring legacy in the music industry.