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Texas blues-rock trio, ZZ Top, had stated that their long-bearded bass player, Dusty Hill, has unfortunately passed away at the old age of 72. This was confirmed via a Facebook post on Wednesday, July 28, 2021. Guitar player Billy Gibbons and drum player Frank Beard have confirmed that Hill passed during his sleep.
The cause of death still remains unknown. Although many people have theorized that his death may have been connected to a hip issue that the band addressed on their website on July 21.
Joe Michael Hill was born in Dallas, Texas, in 1949. During the next 20 years of his life, he, alongside Gibbons, and Beard made the decision to form their band — naming themselves ZZ Top. The name they chose for their group was clearly inspired by blues singer Z.Z. Hill, and British power trio Cream.
In 1970, they made their first debut release, with their album entitled “ZZ Top’s First Album.” Three years later, the band would become a success by breaking through commercially with their funky blues song, “La Grange.” Which was inspired by Slim Harpo’s “Shake Your Hips” becoming a massive success.
From then on, many of their songs went on to become massive hits, with “Tush” being a success in 1975. Their songs from the 1980s, such as “Sharp Dressed Man,” “Legs,” “Gimme All Your Lovin,” and “Sleeping Bag,” quickly became major hits.
In 1976, the group performed at a stage that led to them having one of the most successful rock tours. This was due to the area they were playing at being recognized for its Texas-style look while being decorated with props such as cactuses, snakes, and longhorn cattle.
In 2004, with the help of Rolling Stones guitarist Keith Richards, they would eventually be added to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, which is a museum located in Cleveland, Ohio.
Written By Ramses Sanchez Cantu
Edited by Sheena Robertson
Sources:
The Washington Post: ZZ Top: Bearded bassist Dusty Hill dies in his sleep at 72; Associated Press
Featured and Top Image Courtesy of E Photos’s Flickr Page — Creative Commons License
Inset Image Courtesy of Sergio & Gabriella’s Flickr Page — Creative Commons License