ZZ Top Bassist Dusty Hill Has Died Aged 72

ZZ Top bassist Dusty Hill has died aged 72.

The sad news was confirmed by band's Billy Gibbons and Frank Beard who said in a statement: "We are saddened by the news today that our Compadre, Dusty Hill, has passed away in his sleep at home in Houston, TX.

"We, along with legions of ZZ Top fans around the world, will miss your steadfast presence, your good nature and enduring commitment to providing that monumental bottom to the 'Top'.

"We will forever be connected to that Blues Shuffle in C.

"You will be missed greatly, amigo."

Hill spent more than 50 years with the band, playing his first gig with ZZ Top all the way back in 1970.

Hill had recently announced he was dropping out of some upcoming ZZ Top shows in relation to

a hip injury. It is not known if his death is related to the recovery.

Announcing his decision to step back, a statement from the band read: "The members of ZZ Top, Billy, and Frank, would like to share that Dusty, their fearless Bass player, is on a short detour back to Texas, to address a hip issue. They await a speedy recovery and have him back pronto."

HIll was replaced by Elwood Francis.

Tributes have already begun to pour in for the bassist on social media, where he's been branded a 'legend' and an 'icon'.