Gibson, the renowned American guitar brand, has unveiled a limited-edition recreation of B.B. King’s 1974 ES-355, celebrating his unforgettable performance at the Zaire 74 music festival. This release not only honors the legendary “King of the Blues,” but also pays tribute to one of the most culturally significant sporting events in history—the “Rumble in the Jungle” fight between Muhammad Ali and George Foreman.
The Gibson B.B. King “Rumble in the Jungle” 1974 ES-355, handcrafted by Gibson Custom and the Murphy Lab, replicates the iconic walnut-finished guitar that King played during the festival, marking a powerful moment in music history.
A Legendary Performance
The Zaire 74 music festival, held in Kinshasa, Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of the Congo), from September 22-24, 1974, set the stage for a global audience to experience the soul-stirring sounds of B.B. King. Sharing the spotlight with James Brown and other music legends, King’s blues performance electrified the festival and solidified his place in music history.
This festival was closely tied to the monumental heavyweight boxing match, the “Rumble in the Jungle,” where Muhammad Ali famously defeated George Foreman on October 30, 1974. B.B. King’s performance is remembered as a defining cultural moment, resonating through the decades.
A Handcrafted Masterpiece
The B.B. King “Rumble in the Jungle” 1974 ES-355 is a limited edition, with only 100 guitars being produced by Gibson Custom. Each instrument is a meticulous recreation of the guitar King played at Zaire 74, featuring premium components that mirror the original design. Notable features include:
- Walnut finish replicating King’s 1974 ES-355.
- Mother-of-pearl fretboard inlays adding a touch of elegance.
- Murphy Lab aged gold hardware for a vintage aesthetic.
- T-Type Custombucker pickups for authentic tonal richness.
- Mono Varitone switch and Maestro™ Vibrola™ tailpiece, signature elements of King’s favored sound.
Each guitar comes with a special B.B. King “Zaire” hardshell case, along with festival-themed accessories that pay homage to both the concert and the legendary boxing match.
A Tribute to Legacy
Vassal Benford, CEO and Chairman of the B.B. King Music Company, highlighted the importance of this collaboration in keeping King’s legacy alive:
“B.B. King’s performance at the ‘Rumble in the Jungle’ was not just a concert—it was a defining cultural moment. We are honored to collaborate with Gibson to create a guitar that captures both the artistry and spirit of B.B. King’s legendary performance. This instrument is more than a tribute—it’s a continuation of his enduring legacy.”
For King’s fans, this release is particularly significant as it coincides with what would have been his birthday month. With his signature ES-355 being immortalized in such detail, both longtime fans and new generations of musicians can connect with King’s blues legacy in a tangible way.
Gibson’s Enduring Influence
Gibson, a brand synonymous with excellence, has long been revered by musicians of all genres. The limited-edition B.B. King “Rumble in the Jungle” 1974 ES-355 is a testament to the craftsmanship and artistry that Gibson has fostered for over a century. This guitar is not only a collector’s item but also a functional piece of musical history, available globally through authorized dealers and at www.gibson.com.
The connection between Gibson and B.B. King is particularly special. B.B. King, who is best known for his Gibson Lucille model, used his 1974 ES-355 extensively before developing his famed Lucille. King’s musical influence is immeasurable, and his relationship with Gibson is iconic, cementing the brand’s impact on blues music and beyond.
B.B. King: A Lasting Impact
Born Riley B. King, B.B. King’s contributions to the world of music are unmatched. Known as “The King of the Blues,” King released over 50 albums during his career, earning 15 GRAMMY® Awards and the prestigious Recording Academy Lifetime Achievement Award. His influence spans across genres, with modern musicians still drawing inspiration from his style and technique.
With over 90 million average yearly streams and an ever-growing global audience, B.B. King’s legacy continues to thrive. His music, characterized by his sophisticated guitar playing and soulful voice, has inspired generations, ensuring his place as one of the most influential musicians of all time.
Conclusion
The limited-edition Gibson B.B. King “Rumble in the Jungle” 1974 ES-355 is more than just a guitar—it’s a tribute to an artist whose impact on music will never fade. Whether you’re a collector, musician, or simply a fan of the blues, this guitar offers a chance to own a piece of history and connect with B.B. King’s timeless sound.
To learn more or purchase the limited-edition guitar, visit www.gibson.com.
