ZZ Top Play, first show since Dusty Hill’s death

ZZ Top performed his first show since Dusty Hill’s death, taking the stage Friday July 30 for a performance in Tuscaloosa, Ala.

The concert took place just two days after the founding bassist passed away in his sleep. Although Hill’s death was unexpected, he had suffered from several ailments in recent weeks, including injuries to his legs and shoulders.

“’I think I have to go see the doctor to see if I can bounce back,” recalls Billy Gibbons, telling him Hill told him as he walked away from the tour. The leader explained to Variety that Hill was clear on who should take his place. “In the meantime, I want you to grab our guitar technician Mr. Elwood (guitar technician Elwood Francis) and take him out of this tech station and tie him up with my guitar and keep him going.” with every note. And I said, ‘Well, if that’s your wish, I’ll respect that.’ “

Despite the circumstances, ZZ Top appeared in good spirits during their Tuscaloosa set. The trio started the evening with an exuberant rendition of “Got Me Under Pressure”, after which Gibbons addressed the crowd.

“We’re going to have a great time here tonight,” the frontman proclaimed as the audience greeted him and the group to thunderous applause. “I have a new guy here, as you know. Dusty gave me the directive. My friend, your mate, Elwood Francis is going to hold him behind me.

From there, the iconic band embarked on a set featuring some of the most beloved songs from their 50-plus career.

Hill remained omnipresent throughout the performance. At various points, Gibbons mentioned his late comrade, while praising Francis’s musicality. “How about Elwood, tearing that bottom up there for Dusty,” Gibbons said at one point in the set. “I’ll tell you, that beard is real, folks,” the frontman joked, before echoing the story of how Francis ended up with ZZ Top style facial hair thanks to the pandemic.

The evening ended with the return of ZZ Top for an encore featuring “Brown Sugar”, “La Grange” and “Tush”.

Check out the fan-filmed videos of the performance below. ZZ Top is expected to continue their tour until 2022.