Odds and Ends; Questions and Theories (...how many more years?)

Jeremiah Weed is about to debut a new marketing campaign for their whiskey product. The advertisements will feature a song from ZZ's new album, "25 Lighters". It is unknown at this time what different mediums will be involved: TV, internet, radio, etc. A link with more details is here:

http://www.billboard.com/column/sxsw/sxsw-2012-10-things-seen-and-heard-friday-1006495552.story

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ZZ is set to announce a 30 date US trek. They will be touring alongside Three Doors Down; it is still unknown if Gretchen Wilson will be in for the long haul. The tour actually has a formal name, but I can't remember right now. I believe it is the "Outlaws" tour.

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Billy has made several playing appearances since the Rodeo. Two or three dates in Austin as well as playing at Rachael Ray's annual bash that takes place during the South by Southwest Festival (SXSW).
Apparently Billy is good friends with Rachael and has been for years.

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Billy has been promoting his soon to debut line of barbecue sauce, as well as a new brand of beer. I would first check his personal website for info - hopefully the prices aren't outrageous. I'll likely give them a try.

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Much detailed discussion is coming up, to include:

1st Question: Why do ZZ always tour with new bands these last few years?
Theory: Because they do not want to play full 80 minute sets anymore, demand is down, and they need an attractive incentive for people to keep seeing them year after year.

2nd Question: Why is ZZ's album still being delayed?
Theory: Rick Rubin holds the tapes. ZZ doesn't have proper management. ZZ is not that interested about new music anymore. *If the album is not released by July, do not look for it to be released this year at all - they will not release a new album without a full year of tour dates to promote it.

3rd Question: How long will ZZ still play and tour?
Theory: I would say three years is a good guess. Billy will stay in the public eye for as long as his health will allow, but Dusty and Frank are likely thinking of the day when they can disappear and enjoy a slower pace of life.

4th Question: How many more albums will ZZ release?
Theory: One. It has already been recorded. See question 2 above.