Dusty Hill, bassist, co-vocalist, and one-third of ZZ Top, has passed away. Hill was 72. The band has confirmed in a statement on their official Facebook page.
“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. Frank & Billy
Born Joseph Michael Hill on May 19, 1949 in Dallas Texas, Dusty Hill joined ZZ Top in 1969, and along with guitarist Billy F. Gibbons and Frank Beard.
The trio released hits on albums such as ZZ Top’s First Album (1971), Rio Grande Mud (1972), Tres Hombres (1973) and Fandango! (1975)
In the 80s the band became internationally known with multi-platinum albums Eliminator (1983), Afterburner (1985) and Recycler (1990)
They were in heavy rotation with their music videos on MTV with the signature look of chest-length beards, dark sunglasses and hats.
Hill played with ZZ Top for 52 years right up until just 4 days ago, when he missed a ZZ Top show in Illinois due to a hip issue.
The band is on tour with dates running to mid-December then a break until Spring 2022. No word yet on if the tour will continue or the future of the band.
Check out some of the ZZ Top’s most popular videos.
Thanks for the memories and the music Dusty.
