Trouble On the Road

A number of recordings have surfaced documenting the 2010 version of ZZ Top. I have also had an opportunity to speak with a number of individuals who have enjoyed a show this year.

Of surprise to many is that the band, despite the fan's probable immense excitement at hearing the tunes, dropped "Thunderbird" and "Francine" from the set list. The reasons for this are speculative at this time. One proposal is that the band doesn't enjoy playing the tunes (doubtful), another is the songs were not well received (really doubtful), or that they would rather play "Got Me Under Pressure" (I pray that's doubtful). The likely reason is the apparent inability for Billy and Dusty to harmonize.

After listening to the shows and discussing eye witness accounts, a prevalent issue appears to be Billy's voice. As most fans know his vocals took a distinct turn in the early to mid 1990's, from a distinct and defined low forceful howl to an increasingly softer, gruff and broken tone. Having been able to sing on key and somewhat melodically until the early 2000's, the past few years has seen a continued decrease in the power and conviction of his vocals. This is not to be unexpected. Voices mature and change over time. Few artists as they age are able to sing at the register and forcefullness of their youth. Several questions present themselves: has he failed to quit habits that increase the wear and tear on one's vocal chords (inhalation of smoke), does he take the time to warm up before shows so as to prevent excessive and unneccesary damage, and has he considered taking instructional therapy and/or lessons in order to learn how to preserve and care for his voice?

Contrary to Billy's experience, Dusty appears to be in good shape. Having of course lost some of his high register ability, his tone is still pleasing to the ear. This makes harmonizing with Billy all the more difficult. There are questions here as well though, to be discussed later.

I do enjoy the character, quality and maturity that Billy's low growl brings. Thankfully it suits ZZ's sound very well, low down and dirty blues. He shouldn't sound like Robert Plant in 1969, he should sound like a true veteran of rock.

This vocal change however does not seem to have gone unnoticed, by the band or the fans. If you have been to a show this year and would like to comment or contact me to discuss please do so, I would love to hear your opinions. I will comment on this matter more as the tour progresses.

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LET IT BE KNOWN: despite any vocal inadequacy, the band musically is sounding great. Upbeat, tight, focused, electric, hard blues are fitting words to describe the Texas Trio, one of the greatest bands to ever come from the States, 40 years and running.
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