ZZ Top is an American rock band that formed in 1969 in Houston, Texas. The band consists of lead vocalist and guitarist Billy Gibbons, bassist and vocalist Dusty Hill, and drummer Frank Beard. Known for their bluesy rock sound, unique fashion sense, and long beards, ZZ Top is one of the most successful and influential bands in rock history.
ZZ Top’s music is characterized by Gibbons’ distinctive guitar work, Hill’s melodic bass lines, and Beard’s steady drumming. Their breakthrough album, Tres Hombres (1973), featured hit singles like “La Grange” and “Jesus Just Left Chicago” and established them as a major force in the rock scene. They went on to release numerous critically acclaimed albums, including Eliminator (1983), which featured hits like “Gimme All Your Lovin'” and “Legs.”
In addition to their music, ZZ Top is also known for their distinctive image, which includes matching sunglasses and long beards. They have sold over 50 million records worldwide and have been honored with numerous awards for their music and contributions to rock and roll.
ZZ Top’s legacy as one of the most innovative and influential bands in rock history lives on, and their music continues to inspire fans and musicians around the world.
1. ‘Tush’
This track epitomizes ZZ Top's signature Texan blues-rock sound and features Billy Gibbons' unmistakable guitar riffs. Its catchy lyrics and upbeat tempo have made it a fan favorite among the band's hits. 'Tush' was released in 1975 as part of their album 'Fandango!' and quickly became a radio hit, peaking at number 20 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song showcases ZZ Top's ability to fuse electrifying rock with traditional blues, making it one of their most memorable tracks.
‘La Grange’ is the kind of song that makes you want to grow a beard, wear a cowboy hat, and drive a classic car – even if you’re a city slicker with no idea how to change a tire.
2. ‘La Grange’
This iconic ZZ Top track, with its distinctive guitar riff and gritty vocals, is a classic masterpiece. ‘La Grange’ portrays the wild and reckless spirit of Texas in the 70s and is an absolute crowd-pleaser at live shows. The song’s raunchy lyrics and infectious beat make it impossible not to dance along. It has been covered by various artists and is a timeless tribute to the band's Southern roots.
Taking inspiration from the infamous Chicken Ranch brothel, ‘La Grange’ tells a story of lust, desire, and debauchery. Billy Gibbons' unforgettable guitar work perfectly captures the energy of the brothel's surroundings, while Dusty Hill's bassline adds a rumbling heartbeat to the track. Frank Beard's drumming seals the deal as one of ZZ Top's most impressive performances to date.
Did you know that ‘La Grange’ was originally produced by Bill Ham, ZZ Top's long-time manager? He later shared that he cut some stuff out of the recording as he deemed it too risqué for radio play. Despite this minor hurdle, ‘La Grange’ remains one of their most celebrated works till date.
Don't miss out on experiencing this electrifying song live! Make sure you check them out on their next tour!
Looks like even Jesus couldn't handle the heat in Chicago, but at least he left behind one hell of a song with ZZ Top.
3. ‘Waitin’ for the Bus / Jesus Just Left Chicago’
This iconic song by ZZ Top, a combination of two tracks, ‘Waitin’ for the Bus’ and ‘Jesus Just Left Chicago’, is one of the greatest representations of their blues-based sound. It features Billy Gibbons fantastic guitar work and Dusty Hill’s powerful bass, with Frank Beard providing percussion that perfectly complements the rhythm.
The first part of the song tells the story of a man waiting for a bus while picking up girls along the way, while the second part depicts Jesus Christ's journey from Chicago to New Orleans, accompanied by vivid imagery and soulful vocals.
ZZ Top’s masterpiece is both raw and refined, featuring their signature sound infused with blues and rock elements. It epitomizes their musical style and serves as a testament to their talent in creating timeless classics.
Interestingly enough, after Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans in 2005, locals claimed they heard this song being played everywhere on Bourbon Street as an homage to those who lost everything in the devastating event.
‘Gimme All Your Lovin” is the ultimate seduction song, they even teach it in charm school.
4. ‘Gimme All Your Lovin”
This classic ZZ Top hit is a blend of blues and rock that showcases the band's signature sound. With its catchy guitar riff and driving beat, 'Gimme All Your Lovin' delivers a powerful punch of energy that has made it a fan favorite for decades. The lyrics are fun and flirtatious, featuring the band's trademark humor and swagger. It's easy to see why this song has become such an enduring part of ZZ Top's legacy.
As one of the standout tracks on the band's 'Eliminator' album, 'Gimme All Your Lovin' helped propel ZZ Top to new levels of popularity in the 1980s. Its memorable music video, featuring beautiful women, flashy cars, and some hilarious antics from the band members themselves, only added to its appeal. Even today, this song remains a staple of classic rock radio and continues to inspire new generations of fans.
For those looking to experience the full impact of 'Gimme All Your Lovin', try cranking up the volume on your speakers or headphones – this is one song that demands high volume! Then sit back and let the irresistible groove wash over you as you soak up all the infectious energy that makes ZZ Top such an iconic band.
Pro Tip: For an even more immersive listening experience, check out some live performances of this song on YouTube – seeing ZZ Top in action is truly something special!
Even if you can't afford the fancy clothes, you can still feel like a sharp dressed man while jamming to this ZZ Top classic.
5. ‘Sharp Dressed Man’
This classic track from ZZ Top's discography is a quintessential representation of their signature sound. The song, known for its catchy riffs and infectious beats, has become a fan-favorite and cemented its place in the band's legacy. Its lyrics celebrate the style and swagger of a well-dressed man, making it an anthem for fans across generations.
The song features Billy Gibbons' iconic guitar work that is instantly recognizable and unforgettable. Its driving rhythms are accompanied by Dusty Hill's distinct basslines and Frank Beard's tight percussion. All these elements come together to create a timeless classic that remains relevant even today.
What sets ‘Sharp Dressed Man’ apart is its ability to combine rock and blues influences with pop sensibilities. It has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials over the years, showcasing its wide-ranging appeal.
This track epitomizes ZZ Top's signature blend of humor, style, and musicianship that have made them one of rock's most enduring acts. And it proves that sometimes, all it takes is one great track to leave your mark on music history.
‘Just Got Paid’ will leave your ears ringing and your wallet empty – but it’s totally worth it.
6. ‘Just Got Paid’
This ZZ Top classic, featuring on their 1972 debut album ‘ZZ Top’s First Album’, is a fusion of blues and rock that captures the band's signature sound. Showcasing Billy Gibbons' virtuosic guitar work, the song tells the story of a hard-working man who finally has money to spend after being paid. The iconic guitar riff dominates throughout, and Frank Beard's dynamic drumming adds an undeniable level of energy. ‘Just Got Paid’ has become one of ZZ Top's most recognizable songs and remains popular amongst fans worldwide.
In ‘Just Got Paid’, ZZ Top incorporates elements of blues to produce a unique hybrid that showcases their innate talent as musicians. The song features rapid-fire verses drenched in gritty imagery with powerful guitar solos backed by thunderous drumming from Frank Beard. It's impossible not to sing along to the catchy chorus, which emphasizes both Gibbons' captivating riffs and Dusty Hill's impressive vocal range.
This track remains significant not just for its infectious groove but also its contribution to the development of rock music as it blurs genre boundaries while staying true to its roots. ‘Just Got Paid’ stands out for its simple yet iconic riff that captures listeners' attention instantly as it progresses into an all-out jam suited for every music enthusiast.
Fun Fact: In 2014, ZZ Top was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, Ohio in recognition of their prolific career as trailblazers in rock music culture.
You'll thank yourself for adding this funky track to your playlist. 'I Thank You' is the ultimate groove to get your hips shaking.
7. ‘I Thank You’
This ZZ Top classic, 'I Thank You', is one of their greatest songs of all time. The band's recognizable rock and blues mix can be heard in this track, with guitar riffs that will make you want to dance. The lyrics express gratitude towards a lover for the good times experienced together.
The song's upbeat rhythm and catchy melody have made it a fan favourite since its release in 1979. It was written by David Porter and Isaac Hayes but reworked by ZZ Top to create their distinctive style. The smooth vocals of Billy Gibbons and Dusty Hill, along with Frank Beard's drumming, make 'I Thank You' an unforgettable hit.
What sets this song apart from the rest is its unique sound, which is different from any other ZZ Top songs. Its energetic rhythm infuses new life into listeners and keeps their toes moving to the beat.
According to Ultimate Classic Rock, "'I Thank You' became one of several Top 20 pop hits for [ZZ] Top during the ‘80s," proving yet again why this classic deserves a spot on our list. (Source: ultimateclassicrock.com)
'Heard it on the X' is like a musical time machine that takes you straight back to the good old days of driving with the windows down and mullets flowing.
8. ‘Heard it on the X’
Texan band ZZ Top's song 'Heard it on the X' gives tribute to a Mexican radio station that played rock and roll. The song featured in the album "Fandango!" released in 1975 which marked the band's commercial success. The song has exhilarating riffs, powerful vocals and proclaims their love for early FM radio station KIWW in Del Rio, Texas.
If you're looking for a song to blast while cruising in your convertible wearing cheap sunglasses, look no further than 'Cheap Sunglasses' by ZZ Top.
9. ‘Cheap Sunglasses’
The ninth entry on the list of the 10 Best Zz Top Songs of All Time showcases their iconic hit. Cheap Sunglasses'. This foot-tapping tune is a fan favorite and stands out for several reasons.
- ‘Cheap Sunglasses’ is a classic rock masterpiece that contains catchy melodies and unforgettable guitar riffs.
- The lyrics are playful, featuring tongue-in-cheek references to original shades from Ray-Ban and Revlon.
- The song's music video features the band members wearing goofy outfits, making it just as fun visually as it is to listen to.
- Zz Top’s distinct Texas blues-rock foundation shines through in this track, leaving an indelible mark on listeners around the world.
In addition to these standout qualities, many fans consider 'Cheap Sunglasses' one of Zz Top’s most danceable songs. Its upbeat tempo and infectious rhythm make it an ideal choice for parties and celebrations.
Pro Tip: For an authentic listening experience of this song, play it loud and with good speakers or headphones to fully appreciate its sound quality.
If you're looking for a song to strut your stuff to, 'Legs' is the musical equivalent of a power stance.
10. ‘Legs’
The track listed as '10. ‘Legs’' is a classic ZZ Top song with an unmistakable beat and catchy melody that has stood the test of time. Its irresistible rhythm, memorable lyrics and bluesy guitar riffs continue to captivate audiences worldwide.
Here's a breakdown of the key elements of this iconic track:
| Lyrics | The song's lyrics are suggestive but not explicit, using clever wordplay and innuendo to create a playful yet seductive atmosphere. |
| Rhythm | The driving beat of the song is propelled forward by Frank Beard's energetic drumming and Dusty Hill's powerful basslines, keeping listeners engaged from start to finish. |
| Guitar Work | Billy Gibbons' masterful guitar work infuses the song with a distinctive bluesy flavor, showcasing his impeccable technique and soulful playing style. |
Fun fact: The video for 'Legs' features guest appearances from several well-known models including Kathy Ireland and Christie Brinkley.
This beloved ZZ Top hit continues to be a fan favorite and serves as a testament to the band's enduring legacy in rock music.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
