Dusty Hill, the ZZ Top co-founder and the rock band’s longtime bassist, has passed away at the age of 72.
The tragic news was shared by the legendary musician’s longtime friends and bandmates who paid a tribute to the 72-year-old bassist who helped found the iconic 70s’ rock band together with guitarist Billy Gibson and drummer Frank Beard.
In their statement, Beard and Gibson revealed that the musician had passed away in his sleep at his Houston home.
While Hill recently pulled out of the shows after suffering a hip injury, it is as of this writing unclear whether the injury had anything to do with his death.
“We are saddened by the news today that our Compadre, Dusty Hill, has passed away in his sleep at home in Houston, TX,” the ZZ Top statement read.
“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.”
After founding ZZ Top in 1969, Gibson, Hill, and Beard remained with the band for several decades. They quickly gained popularity in the 1970s and their fame only rose in the 1980s. Some of their top hits include songs like Gimme All Your Lovin’, Legs, Sharp Dressed Man, Tush, and Rough Boy.
Following the musician’s passing, ZZ Top canceled their July 28 Simpsonville concert.
As of this writing, is it unclear to us whether the band will continue with their tour and whether the surviving members will find someone to take over Dusty’s role in the rock band.
Our thoughts are with Dusty’s family and friends during these tough times. May he rest in peace.