By Stig Editor
Netflix Releases New Documentary Celebrating B.B. King: King of the Blues
June 2025 — Music & Culture
Netflix has unveiled its latest original documentary, King of the Blues, an intimate and powerful tribute to the life, legacy, and enduring influence of B.B. King, the man widely hailed as the greatest blues music star of all time.
Narrated by Academy Award-winner Forest Whitaker and directed by renowned filmmaker Ava Sinclair, the documentary weaves never-before-seen footage, exclusive interviews, and rare live performances into a moving journey through the soul of American music.
A Legend Reborn Through Storytelling
King of the Blues traces the full arc of B.B. King’s life—from his humble beginnings in Itta Bena, Mississippi, to his rise as a global icon who redefined the blues genre with his expressive guitar playing, soul-stirring voice, and relentless touring.
The film explores not just King’s musical genius, but his personal battles, moments of joy, and the quiet strength behind his relentless passion. Viewers will get a closer look at his bond with his beloved guitar “Lucille,” his decades-long career, and the deep cultural imprint he left on generations of musicians.
Star-Studded Tributes and Reflections
The documentary features heartfelt appearances from some of music’s biggest names, including:
•Eric Clapton, who credits King as his greatest influence
•Bonnie Raitt, reflecting on their collaborative history
•Gary Clark Jr., representing the new wave of blues artists inspired by King
•Mick Jagger and Buddy Guy, offering rare stories from the road
Archival interviews with B.B. King himself are blended seamlessly into the film, giving viewers the chance to hear the blues legend narrate his own story in parts.
A Cultural Milestone
Director Ava Sinclair called the film “a love letter to the blues and to the man who carried it across the world on his shoulders.”
“This is not just about music—it’s about pain, perseverance, and the power of expression,” she said in a press statement. “B.B. King was a storyteller with six strings, and his voice still resonates in every corner of American music.”
Critical Acclaim and Audience Reaction
King of the Blues premiered to critical acclaim at the Sundance Film Festival earlier this year, where it received a standing ovation and won the Documentary Excellence Award. Now, following its global Netflix release, audiences are echoing that praise.
Early viewer reviews describe it as “a masterclass in musical legacy,”