Dusty Hill, the bearded bassist with Houston's legandary blues-rock band ZZ Top, has died, according to the band's official website. He was 72.
ZZ Top with Shara Fryer, circa 1990 - From left Billy Gibbons, Frank Beard and Dusty HillPhoto: Shara Fryer
"We are saddened by the news today that our Compadre, Dusty Hill, has passed away in his sleep at home in Houston, TX," the statement from Frank Beard and Billy Gibbons said. "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'."
"You will be missed greatly, amigo," Beard and Gibbons added.
Born Joe Michael Hill in Dallas, he later met Gibbons after a move to Houston. The band formed in 1969, and they adopted a signature look with all three members wearing dark sunglasses and Gibbons and Hill sporting long, wispy beards.
The trio had a string of hits and 15 studio albums. Among their biggest singles were "La Grange," "Tush" and "Gimme All Your Lovin'." Although Gibbons was the lead vocalist for most of the band's songs, Hill sang lead on "Tush."
Last week, the band's official site reported that Hill had been sidelined with a "hip issue." The band's longtime guitar tech, Elwood Francis, stepped in for Hill as they toured.
"Per Dusty's request, 'The show must go on!" the band wrote.
The band was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2004. On screen, Hill made appearances in "Back to the Future Part III" and "Deadwood."