The 10 best Zz Top songs of all time

ZZ Top is an American rock band known for their bluesy rock music, distinctive beards and sunglasses. The band was founded in Texas in 1969 and consists of Billy Gibbons (guitar, vocals), Dusty Hill (bass, vocals) and Frank Beard (drums). ZZ Top’s sound is characterized by catchy guitar riffs, bluesy rhythms and humorous lyrics that often revolve around cars, women and life in Texas.

Their best known songs include “La Grange,” “Sharp Dressed Man,” and “Legs,” which brought them international fame in the 1980s. ZZ Top’s unique blend of blues rock and hard rock, combined with their cult image, has made them enduring icons in the world of rock music.

1. Rough Boy

“Rough Boy” is a ballad by ZZ Top, released on their 1986 album “Afterburner”. Unlike their typical blues rock style, “Rough Boy” features a more melodic and atmospheric sound, characterized by lush synths and Billy Gibbons’ soulful vocals. The song deals with themes of longing and desire, with lyrics describing a rough man yearning for tenderness and love. “Rough Boy” became a major hit for ZZ Top, showcasing their versatility and ability to explore different musical styles while maintaining their signature sound. Its soulful lyrics and melodic compositions have made it a favorite among the band’s fans.

2. Put me under pressure

“Got Me Under Pressure” is a classic rock song by ZZ Top, featured on their 1983 album Eliminator. The track is characterized by its rough guitar riffs, bluesy groove, and catchy lyrics. It showcases ZZ Top’s signature sound, mixing blues rock with elements of hard rock and boogie. “Got Me Under Pressure” became a popular hit for the band, known for its energetic atmosphere and Billy Gibbons’ distinctive guitar work. The song’s lyrics describe a feeling of frustration and tension in relationships, complemented by a driving rhythm that captures the essence of ZZ Top’s enduring appeal in the rock music scene.

3. I am evil, I am nationwide

“I’m Bad, I’m Nationwide” is a classic rock song by ZZ Top, featured on their 1979 album Degüello. Known for its bluesy groove and infectious rhythm, the track embodies ZZ Top’s signature blend of blues rock and boogie. Billy Gibbons’ soulful vocals and distinctive guitar playing, paired with Dusty Hill’s bass and Frank Beard’s drums, create a relaxed yet driving atmosphere. The lyrics celebrate life on the road and the band’s experiences traveling across the United States, and reflect ZZ Top’s raw and bluesy style that has resonated with fans for decades.

4. La Grange

“La Grange” is a classic blues rock song by ZZ Top, released on their 1973 album Tres Hombres. Named after the small town of La Grange, Texas, the song is known for its infectious boogie rhythm, Billy Gibbons’ raucous guitar riffs, and catchy lyrics. Featuring a driving beat and a memorable guitar solo, “La Grange” embodies ZZ Top’s signature blend of blues and hard rock. The song’s lyrics celebrate the town’s infamous Chicken Ranch brothel and have become synonymous with ZZ Top’s high-energy live performances. “La Grange” remains one of the band’s most famous and enduring hits.

5. Well-dressed man

“Sharp Dressed Man” is a classic rock song by ZZ Top, released on their 1983 album Eliminator. Known for its catchy guitar riff and fast tempo, the song became one of ZZ Top’s best known hits. “Sharp Dressed Man” features Billy Gibbons’ gravelly vocals and bluesy-tinged guitar styling, complemented by Dusty Hill’s bass and Frank Beard’s drums. The song’s lyrics celebrate the allure and confidence that comes with well-dressed people, and capture the band’s signature blend of blues rock with a polished, radio-friendly sound. The song remains a staple of ZZ Top’s live performances and a favorite among classic rock fans.

6. Legs

“Legs” is a popular song by ZZ Top, released on their 1983 album Eliminator. It became one of the band’s biggest hits and is known for its catchy groove, bluesy guitar riffs, and memorable chorus. The song’s lyrics playfully focus on the physical attractiveness of a woman’s legs, accompanied by ZZ Top’s signature humor and swagger. “Legs” was accompanied by a popular music video featuring the band’s legendary hot rods and the “Eliminator Girls,” contributing to its success on MTV and mainstream radio. The song’s mix of rock, blues, and pop elements cemented its place as a classic in ZZ Top’s repertoire.

7. Give me all your love

“Gimme All Your Lovin'” is a popular rock song by ZZ Top, released in 1983 as the first single from their album “Eliminator”. Known for its catchy guitar riff and infectious groove, the song embodies ZZ Top’s signature blend of blues rock and boogie. Billy Gibbons’ raw vocals and distinctive guitar work, combined with Dusty Hill’s bass and Frank Beard’s drums, create a driving and energetic atmosphere. The song’s lyrics express a desire for romantic attention and affection, against a backdrop of slick production and memorable hooks. “Gimme All Your Lovin'” became a major hit for ZZ Top, reaching high chart positions and becoming a staple of their live performances.

8. Butt

“Tush” is a classic blues rock song by ZZ Top, released on their 1975 album Fandango! The song is known for its raucous guitar riffs, driving rhythm, and catchy lyrics. Featuring Billy Gibbons’ raspy vocals and a memorable guitar solo, “Tush” embodies ZZ Top’s signature blend of blues, rock, and Texas boogie. The song’s lyrics are direct and playful, focusing on the narrator’s desire for a woman who has caught his eye. “Tush” became a fan favorite and a staple of ZZ Top’s live performances, showcasing their ability to create rousing, riff-driven rock anthems that resonate with audiences.

9. Cheap sunglasses

“Cheap Sunglasses” is a classic rock song by ZZ Top, featured on their 1979 album Degüello. Known for its bluesy groove and laid-back vibe, the song showcases ZZ Top’s signature blend of blues rock with a dash of humor. Billy Gibbons’ soulful vocals and raw guitar riffs, along with Dusty Hill’s bass and Frank Beard’s drums, create a relaxed yet driving rhythm. The lyrics of “Cheap Sunglasses” humorously reflect the appeal and style of inexpensive eyewear and capture ZZ Top’s playful approach to songwriting. The song remains a fan favorite and a testament to ZZ Top’s enduring influence in the rock music scene.

10. Pearl necklace

“Pearl Necklace” is a blues rock song by ZZ Top, released on their 1981 album El Loco. The song features ZZ Top’s signature mix of rough guitar riffs, bluesy rhythms, and humorous lyrics. In “Pearl Necklace,” the lyrics metaphorically describe the desire for material gifts and luxury, specifically referring to a pearl necklace as a symbol of status and wealth. The song’s playful and raunchy lyrics, coupled with Billy Gibbons’ distinctive vocals and guitar playing, reflect ZZ Top’s style of combining catchy melodies with wry humor. “Pearl Necklace” remains a notable track in the band’s discography, showcasing their ability to create memorable and appealing blues rock music.

Edward Tomlin is a regular contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us on social media below.