ZZ Top took to the stage for the first time since the passing of longtime bassist Dusty Hill, delivering an emotional and powerful performance at the Tuscaloosa Amphitheater in Alabama. Hill, who passed away in his sleep on July 28, 2021, at the age of 72, had been a cornerstone of the band for over five decades.
Despite the heartbreak, the show went on—just as Dusty had wanted. Before his death, he reportedly told his bandmates to continue without him and personally endorsed the band’s guitar tech of nearly 30 years, Elwood Francis, as his replacement on bass. That wish was honored as Francis took the stage alongside guitarist Billy Gibbons and drummer Frank Beard.
Opening the night with “Got Me Under Pressure,” the trio quickly reminded fans of their signature swagger. Yet, the absence of Hill was deeply felt. As a tribute, Gibbons placed Dusty’s iconic cowboy hat on a microphone stand at center stage, a quiet yet powerful symbol of remembrance. Later in the set, Gibbons addressed the crowd, saying, “Dusty gave me the directive. Elwood’s gonna hold it down for us,” drawing both applause and emotional reactions from the audience.
The band played through classics like “Tush” and “La Grange,” each note carrying added weight and sentiment. Gibbons, known for his cool stage presence, allowed moments of vulnerability to surface, admitting in interviews afterward that stepping on stage without Dusty brought tears to his eyes.
Though the show marked a significant change in ZZ Top’s dynamic, it also stood as a testament to their resilience. Hill’s spirit was present throughout the evening, not only in memory but in music. The performance reassured fans that while the lineup may shift, the legacy of ZZ Top—and Dusty Hill—remains firmly rooted in rock history.
As the band continues their tour, now named “Sharp Dressed Simple Man,” the music rolls on, just as Dusty would have wanted.
