Sunday, August 8, 2010

ZZ Top appearance rider / Clearfield, PA show update

Found some very interesting stuff on the web earlier this weekend. For all those intrigued by insider information on ZZ, I suggest you visit the following site: 
www.thesmokinggun.com/backstage/hall-fame/zz-top

Click on the "view the document" section on the left hand side of the page. What you will find is 5 pages of the band's rider agreement provided to the promoter or venue manager in advance of each show. Keep in mind I have no way to verify the authenticity or accuracy of this document, and in no way represent it to be the absolute truth. I am not even sure of the year of the document. Still the findings are very interesting.

A few points to be made about what the document states:
- I'm guessing the oxygen and mask needed 30 minutes prior to and through to 30 minutes post show is due to Dusty's asthma. Hopefully he is not a regular smoker; he can clearly be seen in the "Live From Texas" DVD puffing on a cigarette. I suppose it could also be available to assist with warming up Dusty and Billy's throats/vocals for the about to be concert, but I doubt it.
- Mariah Carey, notorious for pre-show requests, can't hold a candle to ZZ. Actually I'm kidding. But the extensive amount of food, drink and accomodations is surprising.
- Billy obviously still loves Mexican food, as can be seen in the extensive requirement of Mexican type dishes and sauces.
- If "Tab" cola ever decides to advertise Frank Beard absolutely must be their sponsor. I bet he would do it for free. Having consumed the beverage in large quantities since the early '80's this man has Tab running through his veins.
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Attended the Clearfield, PA county fair show on August 4th. Overall a great show, with abundant guitar variations and improvisations from Billy that an intermediate and above ZZ fan would knowingly pick up. Show also appears to have fully sold out despite a rather expensive ticket price. A full review is forthcoming.

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