B.B. King Cancels Tour, Diagnosed With Dehydration And Exhaustion

B.B. King has cancelled the remainder of his current tour. According to reports, the Blues legend became ill during a performance at Chicago’s House of Blues. He was later diagnosed with dehydration and exhaustion. Although he is currently “back home and feeling better,” King’s doctor said he needs to rest.

At the age of 89, B.B. King continues to wow audiences with his rich voice, unique style, and quick wit. Although he has suffered several health issues, King performs numerous live shows every year.

In April, the legend suffered a setback during an performance in St. Louis, Missouri. As reported by Chicago Tribune, King’s mood during the show was described as unusual and “erratic.” As many fans left the venue in frustration, a spokesperson issued an official apology.

“The combination of the rigors of the very long drive and high blood sugar due to his medication error resulted in a performance that did not match Mr. King’s usual standard of excellence.”

Despite the issue in Missouri, the Rock and Roll Hall of Famer continued to perform live throughout the United States.

Six months later, B.B. King was forced to cancel the remainder of his tour. He was previously scheduled to perform eight more shows, with the tour ending at the B.B. King Blues Club and Grill in New York next week.

A native of Bena, Mississippi, Riley B. King began performing “on street corners for dimes.” He later moved to Memphis, Tennessee, with dreams of becoming a star. He got his big break in 1948, with a live performance on the Sonny Boy Williamson radio show.

In 1956, B.B. King began his first national tour. In a period of one year, the King of the Blues performed 340 shows. Over the next 58 years, King became well-known for his unique voice and guitar style.

Through the years, blues legend received numerous rewards for his work, including induction into the Blues Foundation Hall of Fame and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. He also received honorary doctorate degrees from Berklee College of Music, Brown University, Mississippi Valley State University, Rhodes College, and Yale.

King also owns several blues clubs, including locations in Memphis, New York, Nashville, and Orlando. His 2014 national tour was previously scheduled to end at the B.B King Blues Club & Grill in New York City.

Although he was forced to cancel the remainder of his tour, B.B. King is reportedly recovering from his latest setback.

[Image via American Blues Scene]