ZZ Top have played their first show since the death of bassist Dusty Hill

Virgin Radio

6 Aug 2021, 14:59

The rock band took to the stage within 72 hours of the announcement of the sad passing of their bassist, Dusty Hill, as the musician had told his bandmates, “Let the show go on”.

ZZ Top performed as scheduled on Friday 30th July in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, with their long-serving guitar tech, Elwood Francis, taking over bass duties.

Speaking from the stage, guitarist and vocalist Billy Gibbons told the large crowd that, “Dusty gave me the directive. My friend, your pal, Elwood Francis is going to hold down the bottom end.” Gibbons referenced Hill a number of times during the show.

Gibbons and Hill, along with drummer Frank Beard, had been playing together for over half-a-century before the bassist passed away last week.

Guitar tech Francis had already been lined up to fill in for Hill after it was announced on 23rd July that he needed some time off to address a hip issue. The bassist passed away the following week.

As reported by The Washington Times, Billy Gibbons said that his friend Dusty Hill “emphatically grabbed my arm and said, ‘Give Elwood the bottom end and take it to the Top.’”

ZZ Top have numerous shows lined up across North America this year and next, to mark their 50th anniversary.

Tributes have continued to pour in for Dusty Hill since his death last week.

Alongside tributes from the likes of Keith Richards and Ozzy Osbourne, Aerosmith wrote on their Twitter page, “Sorry to lose a great bass player and part of an iconic American band. Our heart goes out to his family, Billy Gibbons, Frank Beard and friends of the legendary Dusty Hill. Rest In Peace!!!”

The Doobie Brothers said, “We are thinking of our longtime friend Dusty Hill. We were heartbroken to hear of his passing and are sending our condolences to his family and ZZ Top bandmates. His legacy and contribution to rock music will live on forever. It was always an honor to share the stage with you.”