As an extension to MusiConversations on Jazz, this episode of the Schu-Memories series, Tom Schuman’s shares his memorable encounter with blues legend B.B. King during the 1989 JVC Grand Parade du Jazz in Nice, France.

Meeting B.B. King

• Tom approached B.B. King outside the bar at the Hyatt hotel, introducing himself.
• B.B. surprised Tom by recognizing him and praising Spyro Gyra’s music, leaving Tom deeply honored and humbled.

A Conversation About Sobriety

• At the time, Tom was struggling with staying sober amidst the festival atmosphere.
• He sought B.B.’s advice, and B.B. responded candidly, suggesting that Tom should enjoy life because "you never know when you're going to go." While lighthearted, this advice encouraged Tom to reflect but ultimately stay on the wagon that day.

Balancing Music and Relationships

• Tom asked B.B. about maintaining relationships while leading a life on the road.
• B.B.’s humorous and insightful response, “I don’t need help being miserable. I can be miserable all by myself,” highlighted his deep connection to his music, which he personified as his true companion.