A rock and roll legend has died. Joseph Michael "Dusty" Hill, who many may know as one-third of the epic rock trio ZZ Top, has died at 72. The death was reported by Hill's bandmates Billy Gibbons and Frank Beard, who say the bassist passed in his sleep. Almost immediately following news of his death, tributes to Hill sprang up on the internet, with some big names in music – including the likes of Ozzy Osbourne and Queen's Brian May – and showbiz paying their respects.
It's only natural to kick things off with the Prince of Darkness himself, who shared photos with himself and ZZ Top. Ozzy Osbourne wished the surviving members of ZZ Top well as they dealt with this tough time.
Dusty Hill was a living legend of rock and roll prior to his passing, and as such was memorialized en masse by other living legends of the genre. Queen's Brian May acknowledged Dusty Hill, to make note of the loss on the world.
Then there are other rockers like Kiss vocalist Paul Stanley, who actually had a bit more to share. Stanley talked about his relationship with the band ZZ Top over the years, and how no matter the situation, they were a class act.
WOW! Dusty Hill. What an icon. @ZZTop’s bassist forever. So unique. Always a gentleman from the days of us opening for them through the recent days of them opening for us. I don’t know what to say but 'Thank you' and 'Rest however you damn well choose!'
Though no specific cause of death was noted, it was widely reported that Dusty Hill was on the mend from a health-related issue involving his hip the previous Friday. The issue was significant enough that Hill halted the band's touring schedule and he was replaced while given time to recover.
Dusty Hill was an influence to rockers, especially other bassists. It's only fitting that he was honored by another legendary bassist, Flea of The Red Hot Chili Peppers.
Billy Corgan of the Smashing Pumpkins was another notable name to pay his respects, and while the two only crossed paths once, he had nothing but positive things to share.
One surprising name with a bit more to share came from a celebrity outside the world of rock, Morgan Fairchild. The iconic actress shared a personal story, as it turns out the two went way back to a time before either were celebrities and ran around in the same circles.
There's no denying Dusty Hill will be remembered as one of the legends of rock and roll, especially since he had that reputation well before his death. That should be evident enough in the wide range of musicians who honored him after the news of his passing, and the ones who will continue to do so in the days that follow.
Dusty Hill will be missed by many, but of course by his family and friends most of all. There's no word so far on what this means for the future of ZZ Top, and whether or not the band will take a brief break from their touring schedule or halt completely until further notice.
CinemaBlend would like to extend deepest condolences to the family and friends of Dusty Hill. Continue to stick with CinemaBlend for more happenings in entertainment news.
