In a recent conversation aboard the Rock Legends Cruise in the Royal Theater, Billy Gibbons opened up about the band’s future and the importance of original members in iconic bands.
The discussion began with a reflection on the longevity of bands like ZZ Top, Aerosmith, U2, and Crosby, Stills and Nash, noting how these bands have managed to stay together with their original lineups for an extended period.
Navigating Band Identity After Loss
Gibbons was asked about his stance on bands continuing to perform under their original name even after losing key members. He responded with a story relating to Lynyrd Skynyrd and their decision to press onward after the passing of Gary Rossington, saying:
“That’s an interesting story. As everyone may know, the last surviving original member, or one of the last surviving original members, Gary Rossington, the guitarist. When he passed away, I said, ‘Well, that’s going to be it.’ That’s that very day I got a phone call from now singer Johnny Van Zant.”
The musician continued, revealing the details of the conversation between him and Van Zant:
“I said, ‘Oh gosh, I’m so glad to hear from you. I’ve heard the news that Gary Rossington has now passed away,’ and he said, ‘Yep. I know ZZ Top is going out next week. Can Lynyrd Skynyrd… We’re going to press onward. Can we join the tour?’ So I said, ‘Well, we, ZZ Top, hired Lynyrd Skynyrd as our opening act. We gave them their first paying job, and they’re still doing it. So, yeah, it’s a good thing.”
A New Chapter For ZZ Top
This discussion gains additional depth when considering the band’s journey since losing Dusty Hill, their bassist, on July 28, 2021. In June 2023, Gibbons shared memories of Hill with Louder Sound, portraying him as more than a bandmate — a family member whose influence on ZZ Top endures. Following Hill’s wishes, Elwood Francis stepped in to fill the void left by Hill, a transition that not only honored Hill’s legacy but also introduced a fresh dynamic to the band.
The rocker also played an important role in organizing a tribute to Lynyrd Skynyrd’s Gary Rossington. He previously spoke about how, after Rossington’s passing, he was approached to help put together a tribute at the CMT Awards.
Looking ahead, ZZ Top and Lynyrd Skynyrd are set to embark on the Sharp Dressed Simple Man Tour, a co-headlined North American tour covering 36 cities in 2024. The tour, kicking off in Savannah, Georgia, on March 8, will feature special guests Black Stone Cherry and the Outlaws.
Watch Billy’s full interview below.
