B.B. King – The Thrill Is Gone

Introduction

Few blues songs have left as profound a mark on music history as B.B. King’s “The Thrill Is Gone.” Recorded in 1969, this haunting ballad became one of King’s signature tracks and introduced the blues to a wider audience around the world. With its soulful guitar licks, aching vocals, and timeless theme of heartbreak, “The Thrill Is Gone” remains a defining classic of the genre.

In this post, we’ll dive into the origins, musical genius, and lasting impact of this unforgettable blues anthem.

The Origins of “The Thrill Is Gone”

“The Thrill Is Gone” was originally written by Roy Hawkins and Rick Darnell in 1951 and covered by various artists before B.B. King’s iconic version. King’s 1969 recording, produced by Bill Szymczyk and released on the album Completely Well, transformed the song into a smooth, electric blues masterpiece with lush string arrangements that were groundbreaking at the time.

King’s interpretation brought raw emotion and instrumental brilliance, making it a blues standard recognized across genres.

Lyrics & Theme

The song captures the painful end of a love that once brought joy but has now faded:

“The thrill is gone,
The thrill is gone away,
The thrill is gone, baby,
The thrill is gone away…”

These simple, poignant lines echo the universal feeling of loss and resignation, delivered with King’s soulful voice and expressive guitar solos that almost speak as much as the lyrics.

Musical Style and Performance

• Genre: Electric Blues

• Instrumentation: King’s signature Gibson guitar “Lucille” sings alongside a smooth backing of strings and rhythm section.

• Vocals: B.B. King’s expressive, heartfelt singing perfectly conveys the melancholy of the lyrics.

• Innovations: The use of orchestral strings added a richer, more emotional dimension to traditional blues.

This combination gave the song broad appeal beyond blues purists, influencing rock, soul, and jazz musicians.

Chart Success and Awards

“The Thrill Is Gone” became B.B. King’s first major crossover hit:

• Reached #15 on the Billboard Hot 100

• Peaked at #3 on the R&B charts

• Won a Grammy Award for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance in 1970

Its commercial success solidified King’s status as the “King of the Blues” and brought blues music to mainstream audiences worldwide.

Legacy and Influence

The song’s impact extends far beyond its initial release. “The Thrill Is Gone” is considered one of the greatest blues songs ever recorded, often cited by guitarists and singers as a major influence.

It has been covered by countless artists including:

• Gary Moore

• Eric Clapton

• Mildred Bailey

Its iconic status makes it a staple of blues festivals, tribute albums, and guitar lessons worldwide.

Final Thoughts

B.B. King’s “The Thrill Is Gone” is a masterclass in blues storytelling, blending sorrowful lyrics, masterful guitar work, and soulful vocals. It’s a timeless anthem of lost love and emotional pain that resonates with listeners of all backgrounds.

If you want to experience the heart of the blues, “The Thrill Is Gone” is an essential listen — a track that captures the spirit of a genre and the soul of a music legend.

Lyrics: The Thrill Is Gone

The thrill is gone
The thrill is gone away
The thrill is gone baby
The thrill is gone away
You know you done me wrong baby
And you’ll be sorry somedayThe thrill is gone
It’s gone away from me
The thrill is gone baby
The thrill is gone away from me
Although, I’ll still live on
But so lonely I’ll be 

The thrill is gone
It’s gone away for good
The thrill is gone baby
It’s gone away for good
Someday I know I’ll be over it all baby
Just like I know a good man should

You know I’m free, free now baby
I’m free from your spell
Oh I’m free, free, free now
I’m free from your spell
And now that it’s all over
All I can do is wish you well