Reviews (page 6 of 14)
Really cool stuff. BB King is the godfather of American blues and if not for him, music as we know it today wouldn’t exist. The branches upon branches of bands, artists, and entire genres are rooted off of music like his which really makes me appreciate it. An enjoyable listen while I was getting my ass kicked in chess, but at least it felt like I was doing so in a dim-lit night club in 1965 New York City.
Damn the blues were cool
Can’t go wrong with the King. The way he makes that guitar cry still blows my mind. You can tell that both he and the crowd are really into it and that makes for a fun listen. Makes me wanna go smoke a cigarette inside somewhere with sunglasses on.
"I'd like to tell you a little story now if I may" *from the crowd, one guy* "Okay!" Reliably good blues standards or soon-to-be-standards. Plenty of good banter here, lively crowd, and a good sound. Live albums were still in their infancy here so there's undoubtedly a bit of overdubbing going on to help capture the sound. As with a lot of blues stuff from the era, the actual musicianship on display cemented what modern audiences would think of as the correct or best way to play the blues. That is sort of antithetical to music, live music especially, but I won't begrudge B.B. King and the band for being incredibly good and setting a new bar for people to clear, mimic or ignore. Favorite Tracks: It's My Own Fault, Woke Up This Mornin'
I get why they call him the best blues singer in the beginning because this is fire
these cats do have the blues
TOPPEN blues album, första gången jag typ lyssnat på B.B. King och blev glatt överraskad. Hans sång är typ bättre än gitarrspelet? Vilken gud. Har en känsla av att jag gillar det här mer än en viss annan person... ;)
B.B. King is one of the great Blues Artists of All Time. What made his music so good was it was very personal. He also knew how to balance the Delta with Chicago electric and blend in some pop as well. This live album is a great example of why he was doing up to 260 shows a year all the way up until he died there’s a lot of energy here. One of my favorite tracks was How Blue Can You Get? But in truth, my favorite part of this album was the interplay he had with the audience, especially in the song, Woke Up This Morning, where he talks to both men and women about how to treat each other. Maybe he wouldn’t have had so many children if you would’ve taken to his own advice. But Mr. Blues Boy King, you’re still the Man. RIP.
Random thoughts: * I've had this one on CD for awhile. I think I purchased it when I got the other book called "1,000 Recordings to To Hear Before you Die". * I will always remember my friend, Brian Libby, quoting "How Blue Can you Get" to me the day BB King died. I don't think I yet knew the song the way I do know. * Listen to those screams when he sings "I gave you seven children and now you want to give them back". Crazy crowd reaction. Chills. I think BB King did alright with the ladies. That is an absolutely astounding reaction to be captured on record. * Also, "How Blue Can You Get" is sampled on Primitive Radio Gods' "Standing Outside a Broken Phone Booth With Money in My Hand". I remember this kind of blowing my mind when I made the connection. * This is one that definitely should be on 1001
Dated, but BB most certainly was the king of blues. His buttery riffs will live on forever.
Standard blues
Solid 3 stars, a good live album
'The Blues' famously means having feelings of sadness. This is about the most joyous and fun half hour of sadness I've heard in a long time. This boy could PLAY.
consensus is that women are dogs
Pure talent
I just watched Sinners this month and all I was imagining was the night club. Loved hearing the crowd interacting with B. B. King. Favorite song: n/a
★★★★½
This is what a master sounds like.
Being a kid is wishing B. B. King’s band would shut up and let him play. Being an adult is knowing that subtraction cak be musical addition, and those horns fuckin’ rip. King’s stage presence is outstanding, no wonder he crossed over in a way that many of his contemporaries did not. It goes without saying that his ability to wrangle strong emotion out of a few simple notes is second to none. Surprised to find some Latin jazz influence on “Help the Poor.” Take a drink every time King “tells a story.”
Listening to this I’m transported to a 65’ Blues club in Chicago in my head even though I’ve never been anywhere near anywhere like that. I’m was born in 99 in the North West of the UK haha. The musicianship on display decorated with his exceptional vocals of pure emotion just engulfs you. Great record.
BB deliver great music, audience banter and overall solid live performance. Good stuff.
Classic!
I ascended at the end of ‘Worry, worry’
This is one of these albums where the talent is immense, but it just isn't for me. The music and the voice are incredible. Highlights include Sweet Little Angel. Out of talent alone, I have to give it a 4 out of 5, even if I probably won't listen to it in full again.
Tiago: O que eu posso dizer do álbum do BB King é que, assim como o do Elvis, é o que se espera de um álbum do BB King, no entanto, tem outra personagem que é a guitarra. Sempre deixa um ar de "o que será que vem depois?" se tratando dela. Ela conta uma história que não é igual ao que tá sendo cantado, mas é bem semelhante e tão boa quanto.
This album is a fantastic example on why live albums may also be great, adding new layers to the discography of many artists. It's such a great experience to listen to it, and the songs are excellent.
Classic but it's really old recording
Highlight Song/s: How Blue Can You Get? B.B. King seems like a really charming fellow just by the way he talks. It kind of gives me the impression that he's narrating the album alongside singing the songs and playing the parts. Love the comedy in the songs, wasn't expecting for it to be that light-hearted. Solid guitar lines, no wonder all those 60s British guitar players who were obsessed with the blues and took a bunch of riffs; I probably would steal some as well if I WAS a 60s British guitar player. Anyway, I think that at least the racist ones ought to pay up. Eric Clapton... I quite liked the album, the charisma of B.B. King is so far unmatched in the limited amount of live albums I've heard.
I enjoyed this album.
3.5/5
later
At first, this may appear to be a collection of compellingly performed Blues standards, but I know know that most of the value of this record is in B.B. King's triumph of performance. This captures the magnetism of B.B. King as a performer, entertainer and even storyteller in a way that I'm not sure I've heard from another live album. Even the crowd noise reflects this, they are going *insane*, King clearly has them eating out of the palm of his hand. And I think his incredible musical performances are only half of it, the stage banter and chemistry on display here does so much for this album. I think this is best exemplified through the first 4 songs on Side A. King spends what would have been dead air between songs connecting the themes of the pieces, segueing, and addressing the audience. All while his band vamps, ready to hop in at a moment's notice. Honestly, this run kind of plays like a singular song. It really showcases how he uses the concert as its own art-form, with it's own, unique capacity for storytelling. Aside from his performance here, the selection of songs is great. A touch same-y, but he makes it work anyways. And it helps that the last track, Help The Poor, is one of the most unique pieces here. I don't listen to a ton of blues, and it's a genre that's kind of hit or miss when I *do* check it out, but B.B. King sells these songs like no other could, creating a truly great live album in the process.
Voor mijn gevoel al erg veel jazzy live albums gehad. Deze vond ik wel erg leuk, iets meer swingy met een meeslepende stem. Ik had eigenlijk meer willen horen dan de slechts 35 minuten die we gekregen hebben!
day 23: very nice blend of all sorts of founding genres. guitar work is fantastic, vocals are great, backing bang sounds good right through. crowd noises do work as well, adds to the fun environment. don’t think this one speaks too much to me however. songs are def a bit samey and no particular ones shine through. still good!
What an album! Loved it! It was so enjoyable, I couldn't believe it was over. One million stars!
This record is like Sinatra Live at the Sands for African Americans, which for me makes easily makes it superior. None of the condensing patter and all of the good vibes and energy from a clearly enthusiastic audience. Happy music with the saddest lyrics. It feels like BB’s voice and guitar playing is totally on point, and the band do all they can to support that.
This is not something I’d normally listen to but it’s fun and would be a cool record to play if I’m trying to impress someone with my knowledge of the blues
Fantastic live performance by The King of the Blues
The more I go through these albums the more I realize I like the blues and jazz less than I thought it did, Bb king is the exception. He is and always was the best at his craft
8/10
Wow, quite something to have a live album with so much acclaim! Very interested to listen to this… Such heart and vibrancy. The live crowd just adds to that and such a strong and heartfelt voice too. Beautiful combination. Also love the interaction with the crowd. The spirit and fun in it all. Great energy and the whole thing just has a beautiful communal flow to it all ❤️ great vibes
Yeah this is great. I like that it's live and just a beautiful set of live blues from one of the masters of the genre.
Not usually a fan of live albums or the blues but this one was really well mixed and B.B. obviously knows how to work a crowd
Pretty great blues. Crowd is amazing
More live music hurray... The blues is alright I guess. Just not something I'd listen to while I'm not in a dimly lit smoke filled bar with a glass of whiskey or whatever.
background noise 3/5
Fucking kicked ass. Such an expressive guitar player. The band ruled too
Fear I was a bit distracted while listening… but this was solid! The crowd is awesome in the recording, and the guitar playing is obviously spectacular.
Classic
Love it, love the crowd interaction, very fun. fav = Worry Worry
Blues tunes- not for me but I'm sure other people appreciate them
*Ready for bed, but I think, "I wonder what the album is tomorrow?", then "Okay, maybe I should have a Sazerac and chill for a minute first." One of the most iconic blues artists playing seminal tunes live, amazing! The fact that I had to dig to find it makes it even more special. This is a piece of music history.
Long live the King!
this guy had a looooot of problems with women. but album is nice.
A groovy listen and a good time.
Now THAT'S realer than Real-Deal Holyfield, and now you bachelor degree holders know how I feel. Singer, guitarist, songwriter, bandleader extraordinaire.
Blues as it should be. Brass be brassin'. Swing for days. Great guitar playing and tone, BB really brings the energy on this.
Superb album, though his live show from a jail was better
This music is so fun and upbeat I quite enjoy it, would be fun to dance to aswell, and I like it live. It gives good vibes and energy
Oooo blues, a genre I’m not too familiar with but always enjoy. Guitar tone is hypnotic. I wish my guitar had that sound, not typically a fan of live plays but enjoying the crowd of this one He has a powerful voice that hooks you It’s a style of blues that feels so approachable and makes you want to croon with him Will admit I blinked and missed like half of it. But my refusal to restart will just be a caveat.
Hit with an immediate smooth blues listening experience with Every Day I Have The Blues. Simply a nice vibey album to listen to in the background. Imagine a mix of Ray Charles and Parliament
I can tell hes great at the blues but its pretty boring
Erster Gedanke: Oh noooo...Blues. Aber BB ist der King...die Legende. Soo guter Vibe, nackte Seele, love in pain in eternity!
findi easy
Gfallt mir mega. De typ het halt so die Südstaate-Sympathie. Liebs wiener bi jedem Track so no was seit vowege “lets go back to blabla“. Ish halt au es Live-Album wan ich ned so fühl, ish aber überhaupt ned störend und addet nomol chli meh flair. S'gekreische müesst ned si aber die wo “Right on“ ine rüefed findi fun. Stand out tracks: It's My Own Fault, How Blue can you get & You Upset Me Baby. So Groovy, So unapologetically Black – love it
really solid album. there's a reason bb king is in the inner circle of electric blues musicians. to hear him live in his element is really cool. i just wish the crop of tracks here interested me more. they're not bad! they're good! i just wish i my socks were blown off a lot more than they actually were.
Solid blues. Surprising falsetto! Great album
Just somg good old Blues. Electric guitars bringing it upto date with the time. B.B. King sounds amazing with that gravel in his voice and hitting those high notes effortlessly. The live dynamics with backing vocals mixed with stage banter add some more flavour to this record. Boring today for many but surely a high point in Blues at the time.
Hmm
There's something about old live albums that I love. I think it's just how well they flow. Is B.B. King Live At The Regal is the most important album for people to hear? Probably not, but I still enjoyed listening to it. Best Songs: How Blue Can You Get?, Help The Poor Worst Songs: Woke Up This Mornin'
B.B. King is amazing and does so much with so few notes. I had a chance to see him years ago and I didn't take it, I've always regretted it.
Listenable! Not my genre perse
Sometimes I can't figure out what people don't like about an album, so I ask ChatGPT, which summarizes that type of stuff nicely. It's too polished? It's a live performance! That's incredible that a live performance of the blues can sound "polished". Other comments on this site said it all sounds the same. Are we listening to the same album? This album is a masterpiece. I don't even know any of these songs, but I want to. I feel like I'm transported to a smoky club in Chicago. It captures this world perfectly.
Legendary performances, but the sound is weird. I understand they’re wide recordings, but technically all recordings are recording. It just sounded 10 and empty. But it’s not an indictment on the music itself, but on the actual album.
The Beale Street Blues Boy! 1965 was a different time, because I can't imagine a live album of a blues master/legend only being 35 minutes long today. B.B. is so cemented in my head as an old bluesman that it is strange to hear him performing when he wasn't even 40 years old yet. "How Blue Can You Get?" (not this version) was sampled by Primitive Radio Gods in that one song they had in 1996! Was there a skip/error in the beginning of "You Upset Me Baby" or was that an Apple Music screw-up? This is good but too short.
Great live album. It’s B.B. King I don’t know what else to say. Surprisingly short if this was the length of his actual concerts.
I enjoy the music but not the lyrics. I get tired of this style very quick. 3/5 for cultural relevance and clearly musical talent.
Not interested in the blues, but BB King’s tone always amazes.
how much blues is too much blues?
Cool ✌️
This was fun and good. I saved "Every Day I Have The Blues" and "How Blue Can You Get?".
not a fan
No notes.
Holy shit, fabulous live recording - really captures the power of the blues channeled through B.B.
Really good blues album. The guitar work is some of the best, it's amazing to think that this was recorded live because it seems perfect. I really enjoyed this one and have added it to my favorites.
I mean it’s a live album by B.B. fucking King. Some shits just a lay up
Every song sounds the same
Nice live album of the king
Good album, not a good listen when you are lonely
This album more than anything else I've ever listened to made me viscerally aware of how every twelve-bar blues song is actually just the exact same song. However. The stage presence and charisma of this man was enough to make thirty-five minutes of it before a live audience compelling all the way through anyway. I'd even take another half an hour if it was on offer. Bonus points also for the Chicago mention
At first, I thought that they were piping in the crowd noise on Live At The Regal. No one could possibly be this excited about blues. However, Mr. Riley "Blues Boy" King delivers a bluesy, jazzy, even rocking show. Did you know that he had two marriages that did not produce any kids, but that he possibly fathered up to 18 children? Baller.
For me, B.B. King is actually the king of the blues and this record shows why. Lucille (that's his guitar's name) and his voice were so unique, they could fill just any venue and make the crowd cheer with joy. This is remarkable, as blues is said to "not make you feel better but make others feel worse". If you like the blues, you'll love "Live at the Regal". If you don't, you won't get it.
King!
Who knew BB had such a good voice? Nothing he plays is that complex but somehow sounds perfect. As will most blues around this time setlist fatigue is a problem, most of the songs blur into one, but enjoyed the flowing nature of the set. Good stuff
So of its time, incredible live
Thirty-five minutes of a live show barely scratch the surface of B.B. King's catalog and breadth of influence. Please, sir, can I have some more?
Charismatic
4.5/5
Very much of its time. No doubts that he was a great player but not entirely my cup of tea
It's funny when, after BB says "I'd like to tell you a little story now...", one guy in the crowd flatly shouts "ok". 5 stars.
Clearly a classic of its genre although I prefer a little more Rhythm with my Blues.
Pretty rocking! Fun and engaging. King of the Blues!
WAHOO!! they don't make music like this any more!
This was nice, pretty snappy. I like how the blues is all about the blues. They're going to tell you about the blues, all the forms the blues can take.
live albums are rarely good and this is not an exception. the mix here is especially annoying and underproduced.
Man, I hate a live album but I love a short album.
So fun.
Wow, what an incredible performance. Really enjoyable blues and jazz fusion. This is a 3/5. Now, remove 5 specific women from the audience, this becomes a 4. Remove maybe 20 specific women from the audience, and this is an immediate 5. I just can't take the high pitched screaming. Sorry BB, but you made them go too wild.
It's a fun live blues album. It's not perfect - as it is hard for a live album to do that. However, it was a good listen and it was able to grab and keep my attention.
That's a good show!
What in the hell is a regal? 4/5
Day 47 First time hearing this album, incredible vibe from the crowd. Great voice and guitar playing, the short play time flew by. 8/10 Highlights It’s my own fault You done lost your good thing Help the poor
Can't argue with BB King - phenomenal voice and guitar playing!
All live albums should include whooping and hollering from the crowd
It's enjoyable. But a lot of blues just sound the same to me? Love the gruffy voice though. Help the Poor was a nice finisher.
Good solid blues.
Really good if you're into blues. Some of lyrics were funny
34 minutes of painstaking live blues. I simply cannot understand how people can be so enthusiastic about this kind of music. Repetitive noodling over the same blues chord progression, wailing vocals about being lonely, or being left out to dry by your ‘fly girl’. Give me a break. I did not enjoy this ride with King. 💫
Even though several of these songs use the same blues riffs, I still enjoyed it enough. The live aspect usually sucks but I think it works here, highlighting B.B.'s voice and the talent of the band. That being said, the live nature of the performance causes everyone to meander a bit too much. Good but not great.
A live blues album is very much NOT up my alley. Barely made it through this one
The blues
It's a BB King album. It's ok.
Qué espectáculo de álbum 💿 ❤️🔥
Are you kidding me, B.B. King playing the Blues, there is nothing better than this.
This was fun and upbeat, something you don’t always expect to say about the blues. I loved King’s little dialogues to the audience and the crowd seemed like it was absolutely buzzing! It’s pretty good!
It's rare for a live album to capture the energy and vibrancy of a musician's performance. B.B. King's Live at the Regal puts you in the audience and adding some of your own applause before you realize you're at work and Janice from HR is standing at your desk. 4/5
I was unsure about this but damn I never should have doubted the king! What a show!!
Great live album! Upbeat and fun.
This live album starts off super strong, even from before the moment BB King steps on the stage. It keeps on hard from the beginning and doesn't disappoint. 4/5
No complaints in this one. Energy throughout
There is a joy in this album that I love. It is a brilliant live performance. King shines but the band is tight and goes with him as he plays.
Don't get me wrong, these songs are great!!! But around the middle they kinda start sounding the same 😭 But the beginning and the end songs are super fun and memorable!! Especially Help The Poor, it has a super fun and dance-y atmosphere, it had me swinging in my chair (more than usual) to the rythm!! I'll probably keep this album in mind in the future! Update: Help The Poor has been stuck on a loop in my mind 😭😂🥹
Fun soul album, not a big fan of live albums though
Legend shit
Damn B.B. could make Lucille sing. Love this recording. A legend captured live with a great backing band.
M-7/10 S-5/10
Great stuff.
Great flow but overall not special for me
Not bad
Sympa !!
Dad- 9.5 Mom- 9.5 Mike- NA Lori- 8,5 Michael- 9 Miles- NA Cole- NA Avg-9.13
Cool blues. I enjoyed it. I'm quite surprised that you can make 95% of a record just standard 12 bar blues and it still sounds good and not incredibly samey. It felt formulaic, but I guess that's 12 bar blues. There is a lot of well articulated feeling in there and some beautiful playing. (trying to see past the dated lyrics)
Catchier than what I was expecting
this album…. a gate into the wonderful world of bb king
It's clear why he's a legend
sinners. that is all. 6/10
Really enjoyed Worry, Worry.
himas joskus illasta
Great musicians and see why he’s so influential but not much my style
B.B. the King! A wonderful live set, with his fabulous voice and band. Deep, weary, sexy blues. Amazing that a 60-year-old record can make me blush.
BB King is one of the best blues players around, and it is always a joy to listen to him. This is possibly one of the worst productions of a live performance I've ever heard. Songs cut, the same song posted twice (although different versions), a jolly keyboard in the penultimate spot. Just a mess. BB always gets a 4/5, this album gets a 1.
A true blues master at work. Incredible band, incredible guitarist, incredible voice. Nothing more to be said. 5/5, an album that shouldn't end so quickly
B.B. King nahm Live At The Regal am 21. November 1964 im Regal Theatre in Chicago auf, erschienen ist das Album 1965. Die Besetzung umfasst neben Kings Gesang und Gitarre eine Rhythmusgruppe mit Bass, Schlagzeug und Klavier sowie eine kleine Bläsersektion. King, geboren in Mississippi, gilt als einer der zentralen Vertreter des US-amerikanischen Blues. Bekannte Stücke des Albums sind „Every Day I Have the Blues“, „Sweet Little Angel“, „How Blue Can You Get“ und „You Done Lost Your Good Thing Now“. Stilistisch verbindet die Aufnahme energiegeladene Bluesnummern mit gefühlvollen Balladen. Auffällig ist Kings unmittelbare Ansprache an das Publikum, die dem Konzert eine lebendige, intime Atmosphäre verleiht. Seine Gitarrenarbeit bleibt sparsam, aber ausdrucksstark, getragen von markantem Vibrato. Das Album ist ein kompaktes, intensives Dokument der Live-Kultur der 1960er-Jahre. Auch wenn die Laufzeit mit rund 35 Minuten relativ kurz ist, vermittelt es eindrucksvoll die Wirkung von B.B. King auf der Bühne. Für Bluesfans ist es ein zentrales Werk, das bis heute Maßstäbe setzt.
Groovy, jammy, bluesy and that voice is incredible. One of the best live albums of the 60s.
Great blues guitar and enthusiasm from the crowd.
9/10 B.B. King has always been a bit of a blind spot for me. I did have a period when I listened to a lot of blues, but tended to focus on more of the early blues singers like Robert Johnson and Blind Lemon Jefferson and King just kind of passed me by. But this is a really fantastic live album. I often find that live albums can be a bit iffy, failing to capture the real feeling of interaction between the artist and the crowd, but here, the balance is pretty much perfect. You can get a real grasp of King’s charisma and he has the crowd eating out of his hand throughout, and that live energy is really successfully captured on the record. The playing across the board is so good, and they thread that line between being so in sync with one another while having that slightly loose swagger that lends a great deal of soul and coolness to the delivery. King’s vocal ranges from low and subtle to gritty and fierce, which adds another level of dynamic to the music, and when he lets loose on his guitar, he pours soul and vibe from his fingers. It’s rarely exceptionally complex, but it’s all about the emotion that he pulls out with the notes. Of course, it’s a blues record, so the compositions are all of a very similar style, though there is a reasonable blend of pace across the album, but there’s not likely to be much that jumps out as groundbreaking. But that’s not what you listen to a blues record for really. It’s all about feel, and this album has it in spades. Everyday I Have The Blues - The way the rhythm section pulls this forward is fantastic, seemingly playing just ahead of the beat early doors to get things shifting. His voice is just brilliant, as is his guitar playing. That’s to be expected, but that doesn’t make it any less impressive. Quality playing all round. Sweet Little Angel - And now things slow down. Such cool swagger about this., and he’s got the crowd eating out of his hand. The growl of his voice is just excellent. There’s nothing too complicated about the composition, but it’s all about the feel here, and there’s a great guitar solo. It’s My Own Fault - And we just smoothly slide into another track. More brilliant singing, more cool swagger, more charismatic crowd work. There’s some nice jazzy piano playing here in particular. So much vibe. How Blue Can You Get? - The band does some great work on this one. Despite B.B. telling me to, my focus is nearly always music first and some of the interplay between the piano and horns in particular is great. Quality drumming too, and some more of that fiery grit to his voice. Lovely stuff. Please Love Me - Let’s pick up the pace! There’s so much energy and groove to this, it’s impossible not to tap ones feet while listening. There’s quality guitar soloing as usual and the band play with such great expression. They’re the perfect balance of tight and loose to make it sound like so much fun. You Upset Me Baby - There’s a really weird bit at the beginning of this track, where they start playing something, it sharply cuts out and then something else starts playing. Weird. Anyway, again, they’ve got so much cool swagger about their playing here. King really allows plenty of time for the musicianship to take centre stage, which also gives his vocal great impact when it does come in. It’s all just so much fun. Worry, Worry - This is a masterclass in live blues delivery. Quality lead guitar work, a fiery and emotive vocal delivery, along with a bit of crowd banter, all backed by a band that knows when to strut along and when to flex. Woke Up This Mornin’ - This is pretty frenetic, but it’s a nice switch up in pace and the slower delivery of the vocal offsets it nicely. And then we drop into a great swinging groove. So much soul. You Done Lost Your Good Thing Now - Similarly to Worry, Worry, this gives us a slow build up with some fantastic lazy guitar solo work and then the vocal kicks in with some gorgeous piano lines just tinkling along behind it. Love the switch back and forth between vocal and guitar on this one. Help The Poor - There’s a bit more of a latin twist to the rhythm on this track. It dances around so well in more of a laid back, smooth way. There are some great little vocal flourishes here and there that jump out from the generally subtle delivery and really work to add some spice and fire. It’s not the most exciting of tracks, but it’s only short and closes the album nicely.
Very good
I'm not a big blues fan, or indeed live album fan but I thought this was actually quite good.
Brian Blessed King only got his shot at the big time thanks to Houmous & Chutney and their Korean Tour in 1952! 3.4 4/10 How Blue Can You Get
Album 892 of 1089 B.B. King - Live At The Regal (1965) Rating : 4 / 5 King is a legend, and this album is legendary, so I knew I was in for a great listen. The only negative I can point to is that I wanted more of his flawless guitar playing. It’s there, sprinkled throughout, but I could have happily listened to him stretch out even more. That said, the overall performance was a joy to hear. I’m usually not one for live albums, but I really enjoyed the way his banter with the audience gave the whole thing so much character. You can feel the atmosphere coming through in the recording. A great album, and one I’d recommend to anybody curious about the blues or wanting to hear a true legend at work.
I guess there's a different approach to the blues that I didn't know about. Muddy Waters at Newport presented the blues in a more straightforward fashion that emphasized rhythm and the harmonica. BB King, on the other hand, injects a bit more soul into the medium. His guitar is more front and center, powering through each number with passion. His backing band add on to a sum of brilliance. Finally, add on how he talks to the audience to serve as a guide to the music and I'm convinced that King is one of the greatest showmen to ever do it. A stellar live recording; my kind of blues (8/10, 5/5 on this scale)
BB is a blind spot for me. Sounds great
Amazing live performances. High energy from a band clearly having a lot of fun.
Awesome blues album - feel like I could throw this on anytime
Classic. I don't really listen to blues but BB King is a legend. Solid album
Mhh, blues, stones aber eher chicago muddy waters chuck berry, bb king sagt mir jetzt nicht soviel... c
Not a jazz fan, not a live recordings fan
Weiß nicht, ob irgendjemand das nicht schön findet. Love for the blues 💙
Beautiful music! "How Blue Can You Get?" is my personal favorite. My only point of criticism is, that the lyrics haven't aged greatly, but I think that's forgivable considering the time of it's release.
Respect.
I have this on vinyl. It’s a good one
Absolute insane album. This dude managed to story tell his songs in a order they sound like they were writen in a chronological order of events yet songs were writen in different years for diferent albums. Mindblowing and a killer album
not my favorite, but still nice!
Love me some BB King, especially at his peak. Now while I think Cook County is the better live album, this one still kicks ass
Big band fun - very uplifting
Not really my thing, but it was fine.
This is not 'guy-sitting-on-a-chair-playing-the-same-riff-on-guitar-that-everyone-associates-with-blues' blues. This is big band coming at you rattling the plates on the table while everyone around you cheers along. This is definitely worth the listen. Side note to say that I loved recognizing the original sample that Primitive Radio Gods used for 'Standing Outside a Broken Phone Booth with Money in my Hand' - it comes from 'How Blue Can You Get?'.
I admit blues isn’t really my thing, but it was enjoyable regardless. 3.5⭐️
Really great blues album.
they just don't make em like they used to
Good but uninspiring personally. 1 extra star for bb’s general vibe.
This helped foster so many listeners
A solid collection of blues delivered with genuine heart. Nothing to keep me coming back but a good listen.
This man can sing. Probably leaning toward 3.5 but upped to 4
i do love a bit of blues. this is kinda jazzy blues so its a bit more interesting. i like how he introduces the songs while the band keep playing it makes it more cohesive. Worry, Worry was definitely my favourite, loved the monologue about husbands and wives, and the way he sings is heavenly. but it is still only blues so its not perfect.
Better than the one yesterday. Still just good. I like blues but its not something that i would listen to on a daily. I like going to blues concerts and live shows but listening to it on my free time just doesnt scratch my brain. Still BBKings voice is amazing and all the bans plays super super cool. Just not for every day. I will be revisiting this from time to time however
There is something amazing about Blues performers, their performance as a unit while free flowing. It’s just amazing.
Live at the Regal captures B.B. King in his element, feeding off the energy of a Chicago crowd and delivering a masterclass in live blues performance. His guitar tone is razor sharp, each note from Lucille cutting through the room with precision, while his vocals are full of warmth and urgency. Songs like “Every Day I Have the Blues” and “Sweet Little Angel” show the perfect balance between his smooth delivery and fiery playing, and the call-and-response moments with the audience add to the electric atmosphere. What makes the album stand out is not just the technical skill but the sheer charisma on display. B.B. King makes the blues feel alive, immediate, and deeply personal, even in a crowded theater. The recording has a rawness that puts you right in the room, hearing the cheers and the shouts as much a part of the music as the guitar. Live at the Regal is more than just a concert document, it is proof of why B.B. King became one of the most important figures in the blues.
Pretty good blues record.
85% Best: Sweet Little Angel; Please Love Me; Worry, Worry; You Done Lost Your Good Thing Now Must-Hear? Sure
One of the greatest live albums ever made. One of the greatest blues albums ever made. An essential album for anyone even remotely interested in the blues.
Favorites: Everyday I Have the Blues, It's My Own Fault, How Blue Can You Get? My thoughts on this are very similar to my thoughts on At Mister Kelly's, however I think I prefer the blues to vocal jazz so I enjoyed this one slightly more. I really feel like the crowd noise on this record helped make it feel more lively, which complimented B.B. King's delivery on many of the songs. Overall, I had fun with this one! 7.5/10
Good ol groivy blues. BB is a master
Great album. The one thing that does stick out for me is how practiced his stage presence was. Consistent across live albums and the times I saw him live.
This was a good album. The best part was discovering that Primitive Radio Gods had sampled How Blue Can You Get? from here for their "Standing Outside a Broken Phone Booth with Money in My Hand." LOL What a long ass name for that song. But yeah the "I've been downhearted baby, Ever since the day we met" Was from here! So cool. Anyways. Love me some good blues. 4 stars.
Pretty good live album and not too long. high 3/5
It’s fine. BB King can sing, but the music is kind of whatever otherwise. This is a hard one to rate - there’s nothing I dislike about it, and nothing I enjoy either.
mega mitriissend. mer het fasch s gfühl, selber im publikum luve debi z si!
3+
I’m sure BB is great, but live records do nothing for me :(
Wow... I heared a couple of his songs beforehand and I knew he was good... I didn't know he was THAT good. So enterntaining and his guitar playing is like Hendrix before Hendrix and Page before Page. Why it had to be only 33 minutes long???
Great live album! It was good! Nothing insane but enjoyable.
Хороший соул джаз чи соул-н-ролл концерт, гітара звучить дуже яскраво та чисто. Скоріше не поціновувач такого стилю, але слухати було приємно
ББ Кінг чи не перший блюзмен якого я почув, бо у мого Тата була касета. Але я чесно скажу, що при всій легендарності, його музика мені місцями видається ближчою до рокнролу, а місцями якоюсь занадто дефолтною. Цей концертник я ніколи не слухав і загалом мені сподобалось, бо на противагу студійкам, тут відчувається більше життя і навіть стандартні рокнрольні номери звучать задорно.
We love a good live blues album, and this is the best one.
I was already familiar with this album. It's a really great showcase for B.B. King's immense talent on guitar and showmanship. He's upbeat, funny, and a great storyteller in addition to killing it on the guitar. The 10 tracks on here are all solid. The only thing I could say is I wish it was longer! One of the best live albums of all time.
Banger, top notch musicians
Enjoyable, but not on my list of regular listens. ★★★
A great album
Very good blues performance (of course). I prefer his playing to his singing though. As someone said in another review, good to have listened but I won’t come back to it.
Fun album! all the songs lead into each other quite well, and have great tunes. A very classic sort of blues album, Live At The Regal really does feel like an intimate soiree with B.B. King. I could well see myself getting lost in this album at a barbecue kicking back or at a late night musing of my own with friends over a hand of poker or game of pool. Great ambience. Favorite track was Help The Poor.
6/10
The energy was undeniable, and I loved how B.B. King’s voice and guitar felt like a duo in constant conversation.
Listened while doing finances
Really good old school barber shop music
B. B. King has an amazing voice and stage presence. I like the audience participation in the beginning of the album. It got a bit draining toward the midpoint because blues songs all have very similar structures. But still impressive. 4/5
Hey Joe Bonamassa. This album has a message for you. Piss off, you silly white boy.
veramente bello, 3 stelle e mezzo
Amazeballs
Really great stuff.
On today's album for 1001 albums before I die, I rolled this B.B. King live project from 1965. I have heard of B.B. King before but never checked out any of his music, and god damn does this album make me want to do that. It isn't often that the music sounds this good live that you wouldn't think there are studio versions because of how definitive this whole album sounds. I also have to say for this being a live project the audience really seemed so scripted with just how perfect they sounded all throughout the 35 minute runtime. Each song feels so perfect to show of B.B. King's vocals and killer guitar playing that both blend so well together on this very bluesy and soulful performance. It is live projects like Live at the Regal that really help sell my point that more people need to hear live albums, they can truly be the best thing an artist has yet to offer but since it is such a niche selection usually people just skip over it all without any question. If you want to hear one of the definitive live releases of the 60s, totally check this project out because it is nothing short of incredible.
Great voice and energy
This is a monument to a part of American blues culture. Like all monuments there is a lot of bird excrement to remove. This album isn't worth the effort.
I have never been a big fan of BB King but this was an interesting listen. It was nice to hear his younger, more supple voice. His guitar tone and phrasing is, as expected, excellent. The song themselves are solid but not spectacular. 3.5
It's great if electric blues is your thing, which it isn't really for me.
I had no idea the blues could be so joyful. This is a lot of fun.
Class, 4 Star
BB king is a classic! Really like his guitar and his singing, but for whatever reason, the larger band blues doesn’t always do it for me - it ends up feeling a little too polished, weirdly.
Not a fan of live albums, but this one is actually engaging. The music and the performance are both beautiful. 9/10
Please love me captivated me the most. Rest were classic.
This was surprisingly fun! It shows BB as a skilled and confident performer, at the top of his game. Being a live album, the songs are accented by the audience's reactions. BB knows how to make the ladies scream!
Usually not a big fan of live albums but this one is phenomenal
it was okay
This is #day368 of my #1001albumsyoumusthearbeforeyoudie challenge, and… what could be bluesier than spinning a blues record on a Monday morning? You bet. B.B. King's influence on electric guitar blues is unmistakable, and the whole affair is pretty entertaining, especially with the crowd interaction and cheering. I guess I'll take the middle ground here: acknowledging the legacy and my own enjoyment, while admitting it sits outside my usual interests. This is a 3 out of 5. Looking forward to #day369.
Well, B.B. King and Lucille live. Forget the lyrics, they are just the means to "get the blues". The performance and the interaction with the audience make this a special record, and I agree that this truly is an album one has to listen to. Still not an album that I would listen to regularly.
Very good album
⭐︎2.5 特筆すべきことがないブルース楽曲ばかり。 ギタリストで有名な人だと思ってたけど、全然印象に残る曲なかった。
It does not get any better than the King of the Blues. Every note hits perfection on this captivating live album.
First live album of the list, and of all of the blues I've listened to, this certainly is an album of it. I feel like compared to something like Pearl or pretty much anything by Aretha Franklin, this feels fairly basic by comparison. By no means bad, but incredibly middle-of-the-road for me.
This is actually so good, but still a TORTURE to listen to. Blues isn't for me.
Quirky swingly big band with a funkiness of blues. Cool fun but a lil repetitive
Blues live album from Mr King, I respect the pick on the list, but it's alright. It would be a good performance to see live.
I enjoyed this album. It was powerful, soulful, jazzy and bluesy in one.
The heightened screeching crowd noise distracted from an all time great bringing blues to the masses
I may never heard any blues album other than this, but I can still say this is the peak of blues. When I saw the name B. B. King I thought it's gonna go in a similar spirit like this guy Elvis Costello (you know, like the times long past would be blasting out of it and I would have to act like I like it because it's the big B. B. King [with all respect]) but damn I was wrong! He's the only guy who could yell straight into my ear and I wouldn't be mad, maybe because I would be deaf in a minute but that doesn't matter. The Bluest voice I can imagine, I had an urge to scream with him. The only song that I don't like that much is Every Day I Have The Blues, but except of this one, everything else was sometimes even entertaining, like I was genuenly curious on what's going to happen. Favourite song - It's my own fault
I would give 10 stars if I could. No one can compare to B.B. King and his guitar Lucille. I remember seeing him in concert when I was a teenager. Album brings back memories.
King.
I loved this, listening to this live was so special
2.5
I know blues about as well as I know jazz. Pretty good, dinged down because I don't think I'll come back here save for background music when I'm cooking or something. Fun album, though - live element really adds to the whole thing. Once again, preferring the live albums on this list.
I asked my baby for a nickel
BB is legendary! His playing is sublime. He could really make Lucille sing! This live recording amazingly captures artist and audience totally together. I love the shouted "Ya" and "Yes" responses from the audience. Liked Songs Added: Everyday I Have The Blues Sweet Little Angel Please Love Me Worry, Worry You Done Lost Your Good Thing Now
The guy can play guitar, and it sounded like a helluva concert. Overall though, the album was just fine.
Now, I may not be fully objective here as I have a vested interest in this man and all he has done for blues music. He truly is one of the best musicians ever, and I cannot believe I did not see him at Byron Bay Blues festival in 2011. I should've had better music taste at 9 years old. This all being said, it is not my favourite album of his. The blues/jazz cross-over becomes conflicting for my ears when it starts sounding like a holiday Christmas album. The live element is fun, and the energy is palpable. I don't think the audience at The Regal in 1965 fully understood how good they had it. All I can get in Brisbane is lacklustre punk band with smelly dudes in their late 20s playing at 7pm on a Friday night at Tomcat. Still an awesome album. As it often goes with blues, some songs feel repetitive, some lyrics a bit too whiny. Like, in It's My Own Fault, the song goes on and on about how he did not treat her right: 'She used to make her own paychecks and bring them all home to me' I would go out and cheat on her blah blah blah. I love this theme in blues music. Men wallowing about how shit they are but then continue to drink and drown in their own self-pity. How blue can you be is probably my favourite song. Unbelievably raw and gutteral. His voice is so beautiful. Midway through the album it reminded me of why I love the blues so much, despite its sometimes rudimentary chord progressions, it truly is one of the most interesting, and historically significant genres. Thank you B.B.
Blues at the highest level. I don’t always love live albums, but there is something very special about B.B. King in front of an audience
Album was great! Loved the energy from not only the band but the crowd. Band was tight and I never realized what a great voice BB King had.
Even knowing who he was I had somehow never listened to any BB King, this was great and unusually for me really liked that it was a live recording
Despite my general disdain for live albums, I found myself tapping my toes a couple of times.
I loved how interactive with the crowd this was. Good sound.
This is blues at its absolute best. Raw, alive, and smooth as fuck. Live at the Regal captures B.B. King in full command — not just of his band, but of the entire damn room. It’s the kind of record that makes you understand why Clapton, Mayer, and Knopfler all bowed at his feet. Lucille sings, the crowd roars, and you’re right there in the thick of it. Not a wasted note can be heard here.
Yes, this is real. Not some wanker in the studio, self-satisfied bloke who thinks more of himself than he should. Plus, the crown noise is almost erotic with their love. Great album....
This is really not my thing, I didn’t finish the album because I really couldn’t stand listening to them. The technical skill is good but the music itself just sorta annoys me. And the recording quality, I know it’s live which is why it’s like this but it just annoyed me to have the screaming crowd sometime audible also.
I really haven’t thought all that much about this since spinning it. A treat of singing and guitar playing, but rather repetitive. Love BBs control of the crowd though it’s so natural
Decent blues. Not sure a live album should really make the cut for this list
B.B. King is one of those giants whose work I never delved into. Very curious, but also kinda scared (for the same reason I've never read "War and Peace"). But let's see PLease let the whole record be like the first track cause this is so fun. Sweet Little Angel slows things down but I sure love this rhythm. And the build-up and subsequent pay-off are immaculate. Third track keeps it going. Makes me wanna danceeeee. I'm usually not the biggest guitar solo fan, but can't help but love it here. Love the vocals on How Blue Can You Get, and how the instrumentals compliment them. Man I guess every person who's ever told me blues is where it's at was right cause this is great. Not much else to add I'm afraid. Please Love Me manages to be the most danceable track yet, and none of them has fallen short on that regard. You Upset me Baby, while the quietest one so far, does everything right. Worry Worry is closer to what I expect from a blues song, lots of guitar and singing about their hurt, and I love it. Maybe the speech at the end is a bit outdated but I can live with that. And suddenly my body's moving of its own accord again. You Done Lost You Good Thing Now took its time but damn I love that ending. And damn I love the closer too. The lyrics, the instrumentals, everything's great. And just like that we're at the end. This flew by. Loved every second. One of the few projects so far where I liked every single song. Great stuff. Bye
errr blues puro, sem surpresas
OH Duke Jethro! I've played with this guy!
If this album weren't live, maybe it wouldn't be as good as it is. Amazing performance by the king himself.
Saw the great one at his club in Manhattan. This album does not disappoint
An incredible display of talent and admiration for the craft. This was well worth every second of listening.
Loved this!
Solid classic Blues
I think this is my first live album. I feel like blues gets a little repetitive by design, but the screaming fans really enhance the music, you can feel the energy of the performance. Great vocals, fun guitar
OK. Fun, energy an everything you'd expect. No surprises.
Its fine. Not actively annoying, pretty much typical for this era and live music, slightly misogynistic (also pretty much typical) but i prefer sam cooke’s more 4/7
the oddest part is when he tells people not to beat their wives
Obviously great
Ok. Good live presentation overall but lots of talking , so it’s post-stardom unfortunately.
Great music!
This is a great album, although it is live, and B.B. King's guitar makes everything sound great. Overall, very nice experience, especially if you just leave it in the background, as it can even help turn a solo meal into a fancy jazzy restaurant experience.
Usually don't like live albums but the audience interaction stuff was fun. Best song: Every Day I Have The Blues Notable(s): Sweet Little Angel
So good clearly very iconic
The live atmosphere, the guitar, the horns, the wailing. They all work together really well. Help the poor.
buen disco de blues. no se nota el paso del tiempo
Don't hate me, but I liked BB King better than Thelonious Monk. Maybe I just like Blues better than Jazz.
Pretty good
Just finishing it up now. Very clean recording of some pretty raw and energetic blues performances. Sure, lyrically there's not much to chew on but BB didn't write them: he knows his crowd well and that's more then enough
Could listen to the is all day. Love that it’s a live album, you can feel how thrilled the crowd is to be there.
Blues Blues Baby
I don't hear or know much about blues, but after hearing this album I should. This was a great listen. Ebjoyed it.
C;lassic live blues record. Great album.
More of these albums is what this list should be for! Very fun!!
Blues er ikke min favoritt musikk. B.B. King er en av de beste i klassen og kul som bare det, men i lengden blir det litt kjedelig for meg.
Many blues listeners consider this the greatest live album. I do like it. BB is a master performer and entertainer. This is high energy, and his playing is at that crossroads between proficient and still exciting. I stop short of 5 because I find BB to be more about showing the blues rather than letting everyone feel it.
Nice but also kind of all the same. Did love the crowd ambience
Classic
Starts and ends well, little repetitive in the middle. Solid voice and guitar nonetheless.
Not a blues aficionado, but I enjoyed this more than The White Stripes!
BB being classic BB
Wonderful album, the sound of the audience is really elevating it. However, I think his live performance at the cook county jail is just a little bit better.