B.B. King memorial more cheers than tears in Las Vegas
http://news.yahoo.com/b-b-king-viewing-draws-more-1-000-071317198.htmlLAS VEGAS (AP) — A standing ovation for B.B. King and more cheers than tears marked a family-and-friends memorial of the late blues great's life and legacy Saturday in Las Vegas.
"B.B. was energetic, Amen?" Pastor Pamela Myrtis Mason said to open the service that drew more than 350 to the Palm Mortuary chapel.
"Amen," they said.
King's closed casket lay framed by an array of floral arrangements, two of his guitars named Lucille and a tapestry showing him in eyes-clenched reverie picking a note from a section of the guitar frets dubbed by followers the "B.B. King Box."
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In Pensacola, FL. He was older, a bit slower and had assistance coming on and off stage. But oh my, how he could play! He had the whole Saenger Theater rocking that night as long time fans came to see him once more. He had played in Pensacola back in the days of segregation and made references to some of the clubs where he played before he became famous.
His interactions with his audience were some of the best I've ever seen from an entertainer. People shouted out comments....."I love you, BB!" And he replied, " I love you, too!" He told stories, scolded some of his band When they screwed up but mostly laughed all night long. He seemed to enjoy his audience who had no way of Knowing it would be his last gig in Pensacola.
Rest in Peace, BB. You brought joy and soul to many who will miss you and long remember your rhythm and blues.....