Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images
ZZ Top’s bassist Dusty Hill who has been with the band since 1969 passed away last night in his sleep. He was 72. Billy Gibbons and Frank Beard, the surviving members of the Texas blues-rock band, announced in a statement on social media:
“‘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”
Last week ZZ Top announced that because of a hip injury, their current tour would continue without Hill for a short time. Their performance on July 23rd in New Lenox, Ill would be their first concert without Hill in over 50 years. Guitar tech Elwood Francis filled in on the bass for the time being. Tonight’s concert which was supposed to take place in Simpsonville, S.C., has been cancelled in the wake of Hill’s death. Rockstars from every generation are revealing the impact Hill had on music by paying tribute with heartfelt posts on social media. It is certain Dusty Hill will be missed by his family, friends, bandmates, and fans worldwide.
