ZZ Top
Bearded Texas boogie blues
Formation and Early Years
ZZ Top was formed in Houston, Texas, in 1969 by Billy Gibbons (guitar, vocals), Dusty Hill (bass, vocals), and Frank Beard (drums). Ironically, Beard is the only member without a beard in the band.
From Texas Blues to Synth-Driven Rock
Early albums, including Tres Hombres (1973) and its hit “La Grange”, established the band’s authentic blues-rock identity. The legendary Worldwide Texas Tour (1976–1977), featuring real Texas livestock on stage, became part of rock history.
Eliminator (1983), with its use of synthesizers and groundbreaking MTV videos (“Sharp Dressed Man”, “Legs”), sold over 10 million copies in the United States.
The long beards of Billy Gibbons and Dusty Hill became a visual trademark as iconic as their music. Ironically, the only clean-shaven member is named Frank Beard. In 2013, the razor brand Gillette reportedly offered them $1 million to shave their beards for an advertisement—an offer they declined.
Legacy
Dusty Hill passed away on July 28, 2021, at the age of 72. ZZ Top was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2004. The band has sold over 50 million albums. Billy Gibbons continues to tour in tribute to Hill.
Iconic Guitars
Billy Gibbons is associated with the 1959 Gibson Les Paul Standard nicknamed “Pearly Gates” and custom Gretsch guitars. Dusty Hill played custom fur-covered Dean basses and Gibson Thunderbird basses.
