Joe Bonamassa, Michael McDonald, Susan Tedeschi & Derek Trucks

Biography

Joe Bonamassa, Michael McDonald, Susan Tedeschi, and Derek Trucks are acclaimed American musicians who joined forces for a special collaboration on the tribute album 'B.B. King's Blues Summit 100,' commemorating the centennial of blues legend B.B. King. Each artist brings a rich musical heritage: Bonamassa is a virtuoso blues-rock guitarist and singer who began his career opening for B.B. King at age 12, Michael McDonald is a Grammy-winning soul and pop vocalist best known for his work with the Doobie Brothers and Steely Dan, Susan Tedeschi is a celebrated blues and soul singer-guitarist, and Derek Trucks is a slide guitar prodigy and co-leader of the Tedeschi Trucks Band, renowned for his work with the Allman Brothers Band.

Their collaboration was described as a 'happy accident,' with Bonamassa inviting McDonald and the married duo Tedeschi & Trucks to record 'To Know You Is to Love You,' a gospel-soaked reinterpretation of King's classic. The project, produced by Bonamassa with the blessing of the B.B. King estate, united a diverse group of artists to honor King's legacy, blending blues, soul, rock, and gospel influences. The album features reinterpretations of King's iconic songs, each artist matched with material reflecting their personal connection to King and the blues tradition.

The legacy of this collaboration lies in its intergenerational celebration of the blues, highlighting the enduring influence of B.B. King and the genre's foundational role in American music. By bringing together established legends and rising stars, the project underscores the blues' power to unite musicians across styles and generations, ensuring King's spirit and music continue to inspire audiences worldwide.

Fun Facts

• Joe Bonamassa first opened for B.B. King at age 12, marking the start of a lifelong mentorship.
• The collaboration between McDonald and Tedeschi & Trucks was spontaneous, with both parties eager to work together and Bonamassa facilitating the union.
• The tribute album was produced in just nine months, with over 30 tracks recorded and contributions from more than 20 artists.
• Susan Tedeschi and Derek Trucks are married and co-lead the Tedeschi Trucks Band, blending blues, soul, and Southern rock.

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• B.B. King - Bonamassa's mentor and inspiration; King shaped his approach to music and life (Bonamassa opened for King at age 12; King's catalog covered in tribute album) [1990s–2020s]

Key Collaborators

• Michael McDonald - Collaborated on 'To Know You Is to Love You' for B.B. King tribute (B.B. King's Blues Summit 100)
• Susan Tedeschi & Derek Trucks - Collaborated as a duo on the same track with McDonald (B.B. King's Blues Summit 100)
• Josh Smith - Co-producer with Bonamassa on tribute album (B.B. King's Blues Summit 100)
• Buddy Guy, Keb’ Mo’, Slash, Shemekia Copeland, Marcus King, Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, Larkin Poe, Jimmie Vaughan, Warren Haynes, Dion, Aloe Blacc, Kirk Fletcher - Contributed performances to the tribute album (B.B. King's Blues Summit 100)

Artists Influenced

• Christone 'Kingfish' Ingram - Young blues phenom inspired by King's legacy and Bonamassa's advocacy for new artists (B.B. King's Blues Summit 100) [2020s]
• Marcus King - Rising blues-rock artist influenced by King and the collaborative spirit of the project (B.B. King's Blues Summit 100) [2020s]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. Roll Me Up and Smoke Me When I Die - Live
2. Will The Circle Be Unbroken - Live
3. To Know You Is To Love You (B.B. King's Blues Summit 100, Vol. I)
4. These Changes [Feat. Derek Trucks] - Whisper Sessions
5. When The Levee Breaks (Songs For Humanity)
6. Real, Real Love [Feat. Derek Trucks] (Million Voices Whisper)
7. Crying Eyes (Eric Clapton & Friends: The Breeze - An Appreciation Of JJ Cale)
8. Skin Deep (feat. Derek Trucks) (Skin Deep)
9. These Changes [Feat. Derek Trucks] (Million Voices Whisper)
10. Skin Deep (feat. Derek Trucks) (Skin Deep Deluxe Version)

External Links

• Spotify