ZZ Top Navigates Loss, Welcomes elwood Francis

In a move that underscores the enduring spirit of rock and roll, ZZ Top has continued performing after the death of longtime bassist Dusty Hill. Hill, 72, died in his sleep on July 28, 2021, marking the end of an era for the iconic trio. Stepping into the role is Elwood Francis, the band’s longtime guitar tech, a decision that has both surprised and reassured fans worldwide.

The Transition: Honoring a Legacy

Billy Gibbons, ZZ Top’s frontman, addressed the band’s choice in a recent interview, explaining the deep connection between Francis and Hill. “Well, Elwood and Dusty, they were two peas in a pod,” Gibbons saeid. “Elwood starting off as a guitarist, he and Dusty were trading bass licks and guitar licks from day one. Elwood being quite the family member. He was with us for — gosh — three decades, knowing us inside and out.”

This close relationship proved crucial in the band’s decision to continue. Just before his death, hill himself suggested Francis as a replacement should he be unable to perform. “It was Dusty that said, ‘Listen, if I’m late to the gig, give my guitar to Elwood. He knows it backwards and forward,'” Gibbons recalled.

Elwood Francis: From Tech to Bassist

Francis’s transition wasn’t without its initial awkwardness. his first performance with ZZ Top occurred on July 23, 2021, in New Lenox, Illinois, while Hill addressed a hip issue. Francis initially saw his role as temporary, “When I first started doing it, Dusty was just sick and going home for a few weeks,” Francis explained. “It was entirely different; I was just helping out. I didn’t have to worry about the weight of the crown as I was just helping.”

Even after becoming a permanent member, Francis remains humble, stating, “Dusty is their bass player. I’m not the bass player.I’m not in the band. I’ll never be in the band. I shouldn’t be in the band. It’s Dusty’s thing. Sure, I’ll still play with them, but it’s a weird thing, man.” This sentiment highlights the immense respect Francis holds for Hill and his contribution to ZZ Top’s sound.

A Subtle Shift in Sound

While Francis honors Hill’s legacy,his playing style brings a slightly different dynamic to the band. According to Gibbons,”Dusty used to say: ‘If I’m late to the stage,be sure to give my guitar to Elwood.’ Elwood is a family member; he’s been with us for three decades. And sure enough, Elwood picked up the parts and pieces [to replace Hill in ZZ TOP]. but whereas Dusty played with his fingers, Elwood uses a pick. It’s a little sharper. He brings a little more finesse.”

This subtle shift hasn’t gone unnoticed by fans,adding a new layer to ZZ Top’s signature sound while maintaining the core elements that have defined the band for decades.

The Show Must Go On

Despite the initial uncertainty, ZZ Top’s decision to continue reflects a deep commitment to their music and their fans.As Gibbons stated, “‘What’s this going to be like?’ ‘Can this guy hold up the bottom of the TOP?’ In a trio it’s a big challenge,” he said. “Everything has to be working at a hundred and ten per cent. But Elwood was ready, having been a part of it for so long… [Dusty] said: ‘The show must go on.’ that was his wish, and we granted it.”

ZZ Top’s journey through loss and adaptation showcases their resilience and dedication. The band’s ability to evolve while honoring its past ensures that their music will continue to resonate with audiences for years to come.

Are you a long-time fan of ZZ Top? Share your thoughts on the band’s evolution in the comments below.

What are your thoughts on bands continuing after the loss of a key member?

ZZ Top’s elwood Francis: From Guitar Tech to Bassist – An Exclusive Archyde Interview

The Transition: Honoring Dusty Hill’s Legacy

Archyde’s Carl Simmons: elwood, thank you for taking the time to speak with us. It’s been a monumental shift for both you and ZZ Top. Taking over from the legendary Dusty hill is no easy task. how have you navigated honoring his legacy while also finding your own footing in the band?

Elwood Francis: Thanks for having me, Carl. It’s…surreal,to say the least. Dusty’s shoes are impossible to fill, I know that. My approach has always been about respect.Respect for him, for the band’s history, and for the fans. I try to play the songs true to form, but naturally, my style is a bit different. I use a pick, Dusty used his fingers. It’s about channeling the spirit of his playing while bringing my own voice to it.

stepping Up: The Weight of the Crown

Carl Simmons: Billy Gibbons mentioned Dusty’s suggestion that you step in.Knowing that came directly from Dusty, what did that mean to you?

Elwood Francis: It was…overwhelming.Honestly, at first, when Dusty was initially just dealing with his hip, I viewed it as a temporary thing. A way to help out my friends. But to hear that he specifically suggested me…It’s a huge honor, but also a heavy duty. It gave me the confidence to push forward, knowing I had his blessing, but it also magnified the pressure to get it right for him, for the band, and for the ZZ Top fans.

A Subtle Shift in Sound and Band Dynamics

Carl Simmons: Do you feel your transition affected the band dynamic and, If so, How?

Elwood Francis: absolutely,there is always a subtle recalibration that occurs with this type of transition. it is indeed similar to finding a new set of dance partners within your crew.There are intricacies to learn and rhythm to be felt and absorbed. We are still evolving in that space, and find new common ground and movement on each go around.

The Future of ZZ Top: What Lies Ahead?

Carl Simmons: ZZ Top has such a dedicated fanbase. What do you hope fans take away from this new chapter of ZZ Top, with you on bass?

Elwood Francis: I hope they see that we’re doing this out of love for the music and respect for Dusty. We want to keep the spirit of ZZ Top alive and well. We’re not trying to replace Dusty; that’s impossible. We’re just trying to carry on the tradition, to keep the music playing for the decades more of fans to come.We want them to feel the same energy, the same groove, and the same fun that ZZ Top has always delivered, while understanding that the band must evolve to keep that spirit alive, or the music risks becoming an elegy instead of a festivity.

A Thought-Provoking Question: Your Thoughts?

Carl Simmons: Elwood, thank you so much for your time and insight.Before we wrap up, a question for our readers. ZZ Top has navigated a meaningful loss and emerged with a revitalized lineup. What are your thoughts on bands continuing after the loss of a key member? Share your opinions in the comments below!