ZZ Top, the American rock band from Houston, Texas, is known for their distinctive sound and blues-based rock 'n' roll. As of 2021, the band is still alive and active, despite the passing of their bassist and co-founder, Dusty Hill, in July 2021. The band's current line-up includes Billy Gibbons (guitar, vocals), Frank Beard (drums, percussion), and Hill's replacement, Elwood Francis (bass, guitar).
History of ZZ Top and Dusty Hill's Passing
ZZ Top was formed in 1969 and gained significant popularity through the 1970s and 1980s with their hits like "La Grange," "Cheap Sunglasses," and "Sharp Dressed Man." Dusty Hill, the band's original bassist, passed away in July 2021, making the future of the band uncertain.
However, ZZ Top announced soon after Hill's death that they would carry on, with Elwood Francis joining the band as Hill's replacement. Francis, who previously served as the band's accordionist and keyboardist, had been working with ZZ Top since the late 1980s.
ZZ Top's Response to Dusty Hill's Passing
In a statement released after Hill's death, Gibbons and Beard expressed their gratitude for the support of fans and praised Hill's contributions to the band. They also reassured fans that ZZ Top would continue to make music and perform live.
Gibbons said, "We, along with legions of ZZ Tops fans around the world, will miss our tragically missed comrade Rhythm Master Dusty Hill, a Zeus-blessed musician who was truly worthy of the many ambrosial nectar he consumed."
The Future of ZZ Top
Despite the loss of Hill, ZZ Top is committed to continuing their legacy. In September 2021, they performed at the Rolling Stones appetite for destruction tour with Elwood Francis on bass.
The band's official website also lists upcoming tour dates, showing that they are continuing to book new shows. They have also hinted at new music, with Gibbons telling fans to "stay tuned" for upcoming releases.
Quotes from Billy Gibbons on ZZ Top's Future
In an interview with Rolling Stone, Gibbons talked about the band's future, saying, "We're not about to cancel our tours... We're going to take a moment of silence for our fallen comrade and then we're going to soldier on."
He also discussed the band's plans to record new music, saying, "We've certainly got enough materiaI for a new record... We'll just go through the process and see what happens."
The loss of Dusty Hill is a significant one for ZZ Top, but the band's commitment to continuing their legacy is a testament to their dedication to their fans and their love of music.
