Where Are the Original Members of ZZ Top Now?

The iconic rock band ZZ Top, formed in Houston, Texas, in 1969, has left an indelible mark on the music scene with their unique blend of blues, boogie, and rock 'n' roll. The group's charismatic members, Gibbons, Beard, and Hill, have captivated audiences worldwide. But what are the original members of ZZ Top up to these days? Let's dive in.

ZZ Top's original lineup consists of Billy Gibbons (guitar, vocals), Dusty Hill (bass, vocals), and Frank Beard (drums). The trio's bond, forged in the '60s, has weathered the test of time, despite the band's ups and downs. So, where are they now?

Billy Gibbons

Billy Gibbons, the group's lead singer and guitarist, has remained the most public face of ZZ Top. He continues to write, record, and perform with the band. When not on tour, Gibbons enjoys painting, nurturing his Texas ranch, and indulging his love for hot rods.

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Gibbons has also ventured into solo work. His debut solo album, "Perfectamundo," was released in 2015, followed by "The Big Bad Blues" in 2018. Both albums showcased his versatility and passion for the blues.

The Big Bad Blues Tour

In 2018, Gibbons kicked off "The Big Bad Blues Tour," a solo tour focusing on his blues influences. The tour was a hit, proving that Gibbons' blues chops are as sharp as ever.

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Gibbons also continues to collaborate with various artists, recently working with country singer-songwriter Jake Romania on the song "Hey Joe."

Gibbons' Autobiography

In 2019, Gibbons published his memoir, "Rock + Roll Gearhead." The book offers a fascinating blend of Gibbons' memories of ZZ Top's meteoric rise and his lifelong passion for cars and hot rods.

Gibbons' love for cars is evident in his custom automotive design company, Billy Boogie Design. He even welcomed a specially designed Ford GT supercar as a birthday gift in 2019.

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Dusty Hill and Frank Beard

Dusty Hill, the band's bassist, and Frank Beard, the drummer, have remained largely out of the public eye since ZZ Top's last tour. Hills' health has been a concern, with some sources reporting that he's retired from the music industry.

Beard, meanwhile, has kept a low profile but made headlines in 2018 for his legal battle against his former business partner. Despite this, he remains a celebrated figure in the music industry, known for his steadfast contributions to ZZ Top's unmistakable sound.

Dusty Hill's Recovery and Legacy

Hill's health issues have been poorly documented, but reports suggest he's been recovering from various ailments in recent years. He announced his retirement from ZZ Top in 2021 after 50 years in the band, citing health issues as the primary reason.

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His legacy, however, remains undiminished. As the band's dynamic bassist, Hill's low-end chops and signature growls made ZZ Top's sound unmistakable. His influence on popular music is undeniable.

Frank Beard's Retirement and Departure

Beard's departure from ZZ Top was announced simultaneously with Hill's retirement. Like Hill, Beard left to focus on his health and family. He stated that he had been dealing with some health issues that made touring increasingly difficult.

Beard's exit, following Hill's, marked the end of ZZ Top's original lineup. Still, the band continues with Elwood Francis portraying Dusty Hill and Eric Brauer filling in for Frank Beard.

Despite the changes in the band's lineup, the influence of the original members of ZZ Top remains profound. Their impact on the music scene is undeniable, and their legacies continue to thrive. As for what's next, only time will tell. Until then, fans can enjoy their music and memories, knowing that the spirit of ZZ Top lives on through its iconic original members.