On December 7, 2006, President George Bush announced the recipients of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the Nation’s highest civil award. B. B. King was among the recipients.

An excerpt from the White House Press Secretary’s news release that same day:

Riley - “B. B. King is one of the greatest blues singers and guitarists of all time. For more than half a century, the “King of the Blues” and his guitar “Lucille” have thrilled audiences, influenced generations of guitarists, and helped give the blues its special place in the American musical tradition.”

Enough said.
Photo: BB King - Decatur, MS - June of 2006