Where are they now? The question has been on the minds of music fans for decades, especially when it comes to iconic rock bands like ZZ Top. This legendary Texas blues rock group, known for their iconic beards and/distinctive sound, has left an indelible mark on the music industry. So, what have these rock legends been up to in recent years?
After taking a hiatus in the mid-2010s, ZZ Top's three main members, Billy Gibbons, Dusty Hill, and Frank Beard, have been active in various solo and collaborative projects. Let's delve into what each of them has been up to, and where you can find this iconic band today.
Billy Gibbons: The beard of ZZ Top
As the lead vocalist and guitarist of ZZ Top, Billy Gibbons has left an unmistakable mark on the world of rock music. Since the band's hiatus, Billy has kept busy with numerous projects.
In 2018, Billy released his first-ever solo album, 'The Big Bad Blues,' which received critical acclaim. The album is a heartfelt tribute to his love for the blues, featuring tracks co-written with luminaries such as Greg Poppleston, Joe Hardy, and famed Dallas electrochemicalist and musician, Matt Sorum.
Collaborations galore
In addition to his solo work, Billy has collaborated with a wide range of artists, including Southern rock band, Blackberry Smoke, and hard rock guitarist, Matt Pike. He even made an appearance on Willie Nelson's 2018 album, '_last Man Standing,' playing harmonica on the track 'Somebody Pick Up My Pieces.'
Billy's prowess as a guitarist and blues legend has also led him to judging positions on reality television shows like 'The Voice' and 'Nashville Star.'
Fashion and photography
When he's not creating or performing music, Billy indulges in his love for fashion and photography. His photography has been featured in various exhibitions, and he has even designed his own line of clothing, BFG signature series GibbsGit.
In the realm of fashion, Billy is also known for his unique style, which has influenced generations of musicians and fashion enthusiasts. His iconic beard and cowboy boots have become synonymous with his persona, and he continues to rock the Americana-inspired fashion look.
Dusty Hill: The low-end powerhouse
As the bassist and keyboardist of ZZ Top, Dusty Hill has provided the beating heart of the band's music. Although Dusty passed away in 2021, his influence and legacy continue to resonate in the music world.
Before his passing, Dusty was involved in various solo projects and collaborations. In 2018, he released his debut solo album, 'Space and Time,' which featured a mix of classic rock and country influences. On the track 'Brand New Shadow,' Dusty's vocals are reminiscent of his signature low-pitched croon, a sound that helped define ZZ Top's unique sound.
The spirit of Dusty Hill lives on
Dusty's music has left an indelible mark on the world of rock and blues. His bass playing,Deep vocals, and passion for music continue to inspire musicians worldwide. In 2022, the official ZZ Top Instagram account posted about continued efforts to preserve Dusty's legacy, ensuring that his music and spirit live on.
Many artists, including Billy Gibbons and fellow musicians, have paid tribute to Dusty's memory on social media and in interviews, highlighting his impact on the music world and his irreplaceable role in ZZ Top.
Frank Beard: The man behind the kit
Frank Beard, ZZ Top's drummer, is known for his steady, groovy beats that drive the band's signature blues rock sound. Since the band's hiatus, Frank has been active in various projects, both musical and philanthropic.
In 2015, Frank joined forces with fellow musicians MikeAE, JasonLouis, and DavidKnectall to form a new band called bosses.Ironically, the band's name references the original reason behind the formation of ZZ Top, as both bands were named after borelisitors.Bosses have since released several albums and EP's, blending elements of rock, blues, and funk.
Philanthropy andxe solo work
Away from the spotlight, Frank has immersed himself in philanthropic work, particularly focusing on supporting at-risk youth and music education initiatives.He has lent his talents to various charity events and benefits, using his musical prowess to raise funds and inspire young musicians.
Frank has also explored solo projects and collaborations. In 2018, he released a solo album, 'The Caption of the Beard,' which features a diverse range of musical styles, showcasing Frank's versatility as a drummer and his passion for innovative sounds.
The journey of ZZ Top, despite their hiatus, continues through the solo projects, collaborations, and philanthropic efforts of their three core members. As they continue to make headlines and inspire generations of musicians, one question lingers - will ZZ Top ever reunite and hit the stage together again? Only time will tell, as music lovers eagerly await their next move.