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Wednesday, 5 July 2006, 08:31 GMT 09:31 UK

BB King bids farewell to festival

BB King Blues legend BB King has performed at the Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland for the last time, having played there for more than 20 years.

He was joined on stage by singers Randy Crawford, Gladys Knight and Barbara Hendricks at the gig near Lake Geneva.

"Maybe I should quit every night," the 80-year-old star joked.

King - who won a Grammy Award this year for his album 80 - has confirmed his current European tour will be his last, although he will still play in the US.

Nicknamed the "King of the Blues", he said he felt emotional about the reception he received at the concert.

"I'm going to cry again," he told the audience. "This is the icing on the cake. I could never be sent off better."

He also admitted his health was gradually deteroriating, saying: "My knees and back hurt and my head ain't much good either.

"I can remember, though, that I am now 80 years old so I sit down to make it feel better."

Festival founder Claude Nobs paid tribute to the guitarist, telling him: "Nobody wants it to be your last year.

"You are an honorary citizen of Montreux. This is your second home."



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Related to this story:
BB King giving farewell UK tour (27 Oct 05 |  Entertainment )

RELATED INTERNET LINKS
BB King profile
Blues, soul and reggae
BB King official website
Montreux Jazz Festival
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