ZZ Top has delivered decades of blues-infused rock since they first hit the Texas music scene in 1969. Known for their distinct Southern swagger and hard-edged sound, the band quickly became a staple in rock.
But even with countless hits, some songs slipped through the cracks. Billy Gibbons recently reflected on one such track, calling it a hidden gem in ZZ Top’s catalog.
During an interview, Gibbons pointed to “It’s Only Love” from Tejas as a song that deserved more recognition.
A Master of Blues-Infused Rock
At the core of Billy Gibbons’ guitar playing is the unmistakable influence of the blues. Even when ZZ Top leaned into rock, Gibbons’ style was steeped in the soulful, gritty tones of his blues roots. His signature sound blends raw emotion with a modern twist on classic blues techniques.
This unique approach helped define ZZ Top as a powerhouse of Southern rock. It also solidified Gibbons as one of the most respected blues-rock musicians of his era, seamlessly blending genres and breaking boundaries.
Even rock royalty like Keith Richards recognized Gibbons’ talent. Richards once praised Gibbons and ZZ Top, calling them the heartbeat of rock and roll with their authentic blues foundation and unmatched style.
Redefining Blues and Rock
Describing Billy Gibbons as merely a blues guitarist oversimplifies his impact. While his roots lie in the genre, he pushed the boundaries and explored how blues could evolve. Gibbons recognized that traditional blues alone wouldn’t sustain ZZ Top’s longevity, so he set out to modernize the sound.
By blending classic blues elements with innovative approaches, he redefined what blues could be. Gibbons infused the hard edge of rock and the infectious grooves of boogie, creating a unique sound that resonated with a broader audience.
His use of distorted guitar tones and dynamic beats added a fresh energy to the genre. This revitalization of blues not only showcased Gibbons’ creativity but also paved the way for a new generation of musicians.
Redoing the Sound with Tejas
With Tejas, Billy Gibbons expanded his fusion of blues-rock and Texas boogie by incorporating country influences. This evolution showcased his musical versatility and willingness to explore new territory.
The album featured hidden gems that revealed a polished sound, setting the stage for Gibbons’ future experimentation with technology and production. Tracks like “It’s Only Love” seamlessly blended blues with a mellow, country-inspired vibe.
This approach demonstrated Gibbons’ ability to craft relaxed grooves that matched the album’s softer moments. The result was a record that not only highlighted his growth as an artist but also paved the way for innovative sounds in rock music.
Billy Gibbons on the Redo of “It’s Only Love”
In a recent interview with Songfacts, Billy Gibbons reflected on “It’s Only Love” from Tejas, calling it an underrated composition. He described it as a “blues/country combo platter” with roots in the timeless work of Jimmy Reed. Gibbons emphasized its unique style, noting it’s “fonky” with an “o.”
This track showcases Gibbons’ skill in blending subtlety with technical prowess while retaining ZZ Top’s signature bluesy sound. His ability to weave in country elements adds an intriguing layer to the song.
“It’s Only Love” proves Gibbons can evoke deep emotion and sophistication, all while staying true to the raw essence of blues rock. This versatility solidifies his reputation as a master of the genre, continually pushing the boundaries of his music.