Blues Christmas

The presents have been opened, and holiday hangovers are in full swing, but blues fans will have to wait a few days after Christmas to receive one last gift—a performance by the King of Blues, B. B. King. The living legend and his beloved Gibson guitar, Lucille, visit Reno next week. King has enjoyed more than 50 years of recording and performing music and has inspired generations of rock and blues guitarists. Some of his friends and fellow musicians collaborate with him on his latest album, 80, named in honor of his recent 80th birthday. Eric Clapton, Elton John, Sheryl Crow, John Mayer and other well-known musicians are featured on this collection of duets, which includes blues standards, and some of his classic songs such as his 1970 hit “The Thrill Is Gone.” King performs 8 p.m. Dec. 27 at the Grand Exposition Hall inside the Silver Legacy, 407 N. Virginia St. Tickets are $40-$60. Call 325-7401.