Watch Billy Gibbons and Matt Sorum Teams Up And Play ZZ Top Classics

Here’s a serving of some sizzling performance featuring the legendary Billy Gibbons of ZZ Top. A fan-filmed footage has surfaced online, capturing the iconic guitarist live on stage at the 2024 Rock Legends Cruise XI.

This year’s cruise held aboard the majestic Royal Caribbean’s Independence of the Seas, witnessed Gibbons treating the audience to a thrilling set. But he wasn’t alone.

Joining him were two powerhouse musicians: Austin Hanks, shredding alongside Gibbons on guitar, and the ever-dynamic Matt Sorum, known for his explosive drumming with Guns N’ Roses and Velvet Revolver, laying down the rhythm.

One of the most enduring icons of rock

Gibbons, instantly recognizable by his signature beard and iconic African headgear, is the driving force behind ZZ Top. Formed in 1969, the band has become a cornerstone of American music, leaving an undeniable mark on the landscape for over five decades.

Alongside his longtime bandmates, the late Dusty Hill and Frank Beard, Gibbons cemented ZZ Top’s legacy. Their dedication and undeniable talent earned them a well-deserved induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2004.

The ceremony, a fitting tribute to their achievements, was presided over by none other than Billy’s close friend, the legendary Keith Richards of The Rolling Stones.

A bluesy heart and a growling voice

Beyond his distinct appearance, Gibbons’ true claim to fame lies in his exceptional guitar skills. Recognized as one of the rock era’s most inventive and talented players, Gibbons has earned a place among the elite in the realm of blues-rock guitarists.

His mastery extends far beyond technical proficiency. Gibbons possesses an uncanny ability to coax unique and unheard-of sounds from his instrument, drawing inspiration from a diverse range of musical styles.

From the blues to pop, R&B, and even influences from country, gospel, western, and even West African music, his playing reflects the rich tapestry of sounds that formed the foundation of rock and roll.

His vocal prowess further complements his guitar work. Gibbons’ signature growl is instantly recognizable – a voice that can be both ominous and strangely humorous, as evidenced in his iconic performances on hits like “La Grange”, “Sharp Dressed Man”, and “Cheap Sunglasses”.

Beyond the beard and the riffs

And the rock legend is much more than just the iconic ZZ Top frontman, boasts a rich musical history predating the legendary Texas trio. During his formative years in Houston, he fronted various bands, including The Moving Sidewalks, a psychedelic outfit that gained local fame and even opened for the legendary Jimi Hendrix.

Beyond his musical prowess, Gibbons is a multifaceted individual. He is internationally recognized as a passionate collector of both guitars and cars, a passion documented in his best-selling book, Rock + Roll Gearhead.

Gibbons’ dedication to the blues goes beyond music. While visiting the childhood home of his idol Muddy Waters in Mississippi, he received a piece of fallen cypress timber from the legendary bluesman’s shotgun shack.

This wood was then crafted into a unique guitar named “Muddywood”, proof of Gibbons’ respect for his musical hero. This special instrument now resides in the Delta Blues Museum, a reminder of his enduring legacy.

Collaborated with a diverse array of stars

Gibbons’ musical influence extends far beyond his work with ZZ Top. Throughout his career, he has actively collaborated with a diverse array of talented artists, leaving his mark on various musical landscapes.

Blues royalty like B.B. King and the legendary Les Paul have shared the stage with Gibbons. He has also ventured into the realm of modern rock, jamming with the Queens of the Stone Age. Soulful voices like Shemekia Copeland and genre-bending artists like Kid Rock have all benefited from his expertise.

His collaborative spirit isn’t limited to specific genres. Gibbons has shared his talents with rock legends like Alice Cooper and Johnny Winter, as well as blues veterans like John Mayall and Sue Foley. This willingness to explore diverse musical styles further showcases his versatility and enduring passion for the art of music.

Check out more of Gibbons’ performance on the Rock Legends Cruise below.