B.B. King – How Blue Can You Get – Performance and Review

This is a recording of a 1972 Thanksgiving Day concert in New York’s Sing Sing prison. Initiated by a group of prison inmates, the show features B. B. King, Joan Baez, Mimi Farina, the Voices of East Harlem, and comedian Jimmy Walker. The performances are short but powerful. As important as the performances, though, are the insights that the movie provides into the lives of the inmates and the operation of the prison itself. It includes interviews with inmates, employees, and performers, and so provides several different viewpoints of the same sad situation. More than entertainment, the movie is also an education.

B.B. King – How Blue Can You Get – Live at the prison in Ossining NY, 1972.

B.B. King’s live performance of “How Blue Can You Get” at Ossining Prison in New York, 1972, is a riveting showcase of his legendary blues mastery. This performance stands out not only for its setting but for the sheer emotional depth and technical brilliance King brings to the stage.

His guitar, “Lucille,” sings with a voice all its own, weaving intricate melodies that are both soulful and searing. King’s guitar solos in “How Blue Can You Get” are nothing short of extraordinary, demonstrating his unique ability to blend technical precision with raw emotional power. Each note and bend conveys a story of heartache and resilience, capturing the essence of the blues.

The audience, composed of inmates, responds with palpable enthusiasm. Their engagement adds a layer of intensity to the performance, highlighting the universal power of music to bridge divides and touch hearts in even the most unlikely of places. King’s interaction with the audience is heartfelt and genuine, creating a sense of camaraderie and shared experience.

Vocally, King delivers with his signature richness and expressiveness. His voice, filled with pain and yearning, brings the lyrics of “How Blue Can You Get” to life. The way he phrases each line, infusing it with subtle nuances, speaks to his deep understanding of the blues tradition and his ability to communicate profound emotions.

The visual production of the concert is straightforward and unembellished, focusing squarely on King and his performance. This simplicity allows the music to take center stage, free from distractions. The camera work effectively captures King’s expressive face and nimble fingers, drawing viewers into the performance as if they were there.

Lyrics:
I’ve been down hearted baby
Ever since the day we met
I said I’ve been down hearted baby
Ever since the day we met
Our love is nothing but the blues, woman
Baby, how blue can you get?

You’re evil when I’m with you, baby
And you’re jealous when we’re apart
I said You’re evil when I’m with you, baby
And you’re jealous when we’re apart
How blue can you get baby
The answer is right here in my heart

I gave you a brand new Ford
But you said: I want a Cadillac
I bought you a ten dollar dinner
And you said: thanks for the snack
I let you live in my pent house
You said it just a shack
I gave seven children
And now you wanna give them back
I said I’ve been down hearted baby
Ever since the day we met
Our love is nothing but the blues
Baby, how blue can you get?

Songwriters: Jack Clement
How Blue Can You Get? lyrics © Hall Clement Publishing, Kobalt Music Pub America O/b/o Air Edel Associates, Ltd, Jack Music, Inc., Kobalt Music Pub America Obo Modern Age Music Company