B.B.'s the MAN!!!!!! He's one of my biggest influences as a guitarist (and just about every blues guitarist alive today.) First saw him play live ten years ago and was struck by his humility and appreciation for his audience. I even shook hands with him after the show, which was quite a thrill!
Absolutely, stratman. You see him once, you become a fan for life even if you weren't before. I was thrilled to be sitting so close to where he was playing -- I could have put my hand out and touched Lucille!! A fine honor for a fine gentleman.
The best, it seems, are also the most humble. Willie Nelson is also very approachable. Duke Ellington and Louis Armstrong were, too.
They appreciate their gift for what it is -- a gift. And they all know the value of work -- because that's what they had to do to polish their gift. Many artists are gifted, but don't understand its value or the work they're obligated to undertake in order to take full advantage of it.
The great ones do. It came easy...but it didn't come easy. If you know what I mean...?