ZZ Top Bassist Dusty Hill Has Died Aged 72
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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.
RIP Dusty Hill of ZZ Top. One third of one of the sturdiest, dirtiest, and most reliable rock bands ever. And ZZ Top is a real band, with the same three guys at the core from the beginning. Incredible rhythm section. Always hot. Always cooked. https://t.co/spm9NJaB97
- Steven Hyden (@Steven_Hyden) July 28, 2021
RIP DUSTY HILL I love you forever. Your bass was so loud at one show it made my wife puke. You were half of rock n roll's greatest EVER rhythm section & a hell of a songwriter. https://t.co/3WruUsejtl
- rob delaney (@robdelaney) July 28, 2021
For 50 entire years, Dusty Hill anchored down one of the greatest rock power trios that's ever existed.
- Corbin Reiff (@CorbinReiff) July 28, 2021
RIP Hombre... pic.twitter.com/RGMBWQxYYh
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'.
