B.B. King’s Lucille

and the Loves Before Her

2nd Edition 

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First released in 2013, B.B. King’s Lucille and the Loves Before Her quickly became a favorite among B.B. King fans, Gibson enthusiasts, and blues historians worldwide, ultimately selling out its initial print run. The book’s success led to the development of a significantly expanded Second Edition, released in 2020, bringing the story of B.B. King’s legendary guitars up to date.

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For the Second Edition, author Eric Dahl partnered with Centerstream Publishing, with global distribution through Hal Leonard Publishing, and worked with Nashville-based Cronin Creative to expand and refine the book’s content. This updated edition features new chapters, rare images, revised guitar valuations, and exclusive commentary from artists and industry leaders who knew or worked closely with B.B. King.

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The book chronicles important developments following the first edition, including the release of new Gibson Lucille models such as the 65th Anniversary Lucille and the Alpine White Lucille, as well as the passing of B.B. King in 2015. Additional chapters explore Dahl’s experiences at the Americana Music Awards at the Ryman Auditorium, a visit to the Delta Blues Museum in Clarksdale, Mississippi, and updated guitar values compiled in cooperation with Blue Book of Guitar Values.

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The Second Edition also includes powerful reflections and contributions from notable figures such as Paul Shaffer (Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, David Letterman Band), Grammy Award–winning blues legend Bobby Rush, Gibson CEO JC Curleigh, and a deeply personal foreword by the late Charlie Daniels, who shared a close friendship with B.B. King. Daniels’ contribution stands as a heartfelt tribute to both King and the legacy of the blues.

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The story behind the book itself is rooted in a remarkable moment from 2009, when Dahl discovered B.B. King’s stolen 80th Birthday Gibson Lucille in a Las Vegas pawnshop and returned it to its rightful owner — an act that led King to personally authorize the book.

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As of 2026, B.B. King’s Lucille and the Loves Before Her remains a definitive and respected resource on B.B. King’s guitars, legacy, and influence. Dahl continues to support blues education and live music through interviews, appearances, and planned museum collaborations and book events. It has become a handbook for music stores identifying Lucille guitars.