Buddy Guy Says He Was Blocked From Visiting B.B. King In His Final Weeks

(CBS) – Chicago blues musician Buddy Guy is mourning the loss of guitar legend B.B. King, especially because he was barred from seeing his ailing friend as the end drew near.

King, who influenced generations of musicians and fans, died at his Las Vegas home Thursday at age 89.

CBS 2's Brad Edwards talks with Guy about his attempts to say goodbye to his friend of nearly 60 years.

King's family recently claimed he was abused by his manager and was being isolated. Guy says he tried three weeks ago to visit King.

"That lady wouldn't let nobody see him," Guy tells Edwards. "She would lock out everybody. She didn't want nobody to see him for some strange reason."

Guy says he was tempted to return to King's home and cause a fuss.

The son of share-croppers, Mr. King took the nickname "Blues Boy," which later became B.B. He inspired musicians ranging from Eric Clapton to the band U2.

"If you play blues guitar you've got to play a B.B. King note, or you're not playing the blues," says Chicago musician Ronnie Baker Brooks.

Guy himself says there may not have been a Buddy Guy if there hadn't been a B.B. King.

He called King the greatest guitar player that ever lived – period.

"We've got all kinds of special effects on guitars now. You push a button. His special effect was his left hand," Guy said. "And nobody could never do that like him."