11 Underrated Zz Top Songs: Overlooked Classics

Hey there, music enthusiasts and fellow DJs! It’s TBone here from Level Tunes, your go-to DJ and music aficionado.

Today, I’m super excited to dive into a topic that’s close to my heart – the often overlooked gems of ZZ Top. As a lifelong fan of their unique blend of blues and rock, I’ve always felt that some of their tracks deserve way more attention than they get.

So, I’ve curated a list of 11 underrated ZZ Top songs that truly showcase their musical genius. Whether you’re spinning tracks at a club or just jamming at home, these tunes are guaranteed to add some spice to your playlist.

Let’s rediscover the magic of ZZ Top together and give these underrated masterpieces the spotlight they deserve!

Here are the underrated Zz Top songs that you can check out:

List Of Underrated Zz Top Songs

Underrated Zz Top songs in a list format:

“Nasty Dogs and Funky Kings”

From the album Fandango!, released in 1975 under London Records, “Nasty Dogs and Funky Kings” is a track that oozes with the gritty, raw energy that ZZ Top is known for. Authored by the band’s iconic trio – Billy Gibbons, Dusty Hill, and Frank Beard – this song is a perfect blend of hard rock and blues. What makes it stand out is the masterful guitar work by Gibbons, complemented by Hill’s driving bass and Beard’s steady drumming. It’s a song that encapsulates the spirit of the 70s rock scene, yet it’s often overshadowed by the band’s bigger hits. I chose it for its unapologetic energy and the way it captures the essence of ZZ Top’s early sound.

“Blue Jean Blues”

“Blue Jean Blues,” featured on the 1975 album Fandango!, is a testament to ZZ Top’s blues roots. Released under London Records, this track is a melancholic blues number that showcases Gibbons’ soulful guitar licks and heartfelt vocals. The song, written by the band, is a deep dive into the emotive side of blues music. The slow tempo and expressive guitar solos make it a standout track, yet it often gets overlooked. I selected this song for its emotional depth and the way it demonstrates the band’s versatility beyond their usual upbeat rock anthems.

“My Head’s in Mississippi”

From their 1990 album Recycler, released under Warner Bros. Records, “My Head’s in Mississippi” is a gritty and playful blues-rock tune. The song, penned by the trio, blends classic ZZ Top humor with a catchy riff that sticks in your head. What’s remarkable about this track is how it combines traditional blues elements with the band’s signature sound. The song’s groove is infectious, and Gibbons’ guitar solo is particularly memorable. It’s a later ZZ Top track that deserves more recognition for its ability to keep the band’s classic sound fresh and relevant.

“I Need You Tonight”

“I Need You Tonight,” from the 1983 album Eliminator under Warner Bros. Records, is a sultry blues-rock masterpiece. Authored by ZZ Top, this song showcases a more introspective and moody side of the band. The slow-burn guitar solos by Gibbons are some of his finest, creating an atmosphere that’s both brooding and enticing. Despite being on one of their most popular albums, this track often gets overshadowed by hits like “Sharp Dressed Man.” I chose it for its raw emotion and the way it highlights the band’s ability to craft deeply affecting blues tunes.

“2000 Blues”

Featured on the 1990 album Recycler, “2000 Blues” is a hidden gem in ZZ Top’s catalog. Released by Warner Bros. Records, the song is a laid-back, soulful blues number. Written by the band, it features Gibbons’ smooth guitar work and relaxed vocals, set against a backdrop of a mellow groove. This track stands out for its simplicity and elegance, showcasing the band’s ability to create a bluesy atmosphere without relying on high energy or flashy solos. It’s a more modern take on the blues, reflecting the era’s transition into a new millennium, and it’s a must-listen for anyone who appreciates the subtler side of ZZ Top.

“Vincent Price Blues”

“Vincent Price Blues” is a track from ZZ Top’s 1996 album Rhythmeen, released under RCA Records. This song is a tribute to the legendary horror film actor Vincent Price, and it’s infused with a spooky, atmospheric quality. The band, consisting of Gibbons, Hill, and Beard, crafted a song that’s both a nod to classic horror and a showcase of their blues-rock prowess. The guitar work is hauntingly beautiful, and the rhythm section creates a sense of eerie suspense. This track is often overlooked, but it’s a perfect example of how ZZ Top can blend different influences into their music. I chose it for its unique theme and the way it captures a mood unlike any other song in their catalog.

“Apologies to Pearly”

From the 1972 album Rio Grande Mud, released under London Records, “Apologies to Pearly” is a short but sweet instrumental track. Authored by ZZ Top, it features Gibbons’ slide guitar prowess, backed by Hill’s solid bass and Beard’s tight drumming. This song is a showcase of the band’s instrumental skills and their ability to convey emotion without words. It’s a raw, unadulterated piece of blues-rock that often gets lost in the shuffle of their more vocal-driven tracks. I picked this song for its pure display of musicianship and the way it highlights each member’s contribution to the band’s sound.

“Sure Got Cold After the Rain Fell”

“Sure Got Cold After the Rain Fell,” from their 1972 album Rio Grande Mud under London Records, is a blues ballad that stands out for its emotional depth. Written by ZZ Top, this song tells a story of lost love with a melancholic tone. The combination of Gibbons’ expressive guitar and plaintive vocals creates a poignant atmosphere. This track is a departure from the band’s more upbeat numbers, offering a glimpse into their ability to craft deeply moving blues songs. I included it for its storytelling and the way it showcases the band’s range within the blues genre.

“Certified Blues”

From their debut album ZZ Top’s First Album, released in 1971 under London Records, “Certified Blues” is a track that captures the essence of the band’s early sound. Authored by the trio, it’s a raw and straightforward blues number with a gritty edge. The song features some of Gibbons’ most soulful guitar work, set against a backdrop of Hill’s steady bass and Beard’s rhythmic drumming. It’s a classic blues track that often gets overshadowed by the band’s later hits. I chose this song for its authenticity and the way it represents the roots of ZZ Top’s music.

“A Fool for Your Stockings”

Featured on the 1979 album Degüello, released under Warner Bros. Records, “A Fool for Your Stockings” is a smooth and sultry blues tune. Written by ZZ Top, this song showcases Gibbons’ velvety guitar tones and the band’s ability to create a laid-back, yet captivating blues atmosphere. The track stands out for its refined simplicity and understated elegance. It’s a testament to the band’s skill in crafting blues songs that are both relaxing and deeply expressive. I selected this song for its charm and the way it epitomizes the band’s softer side.

“Mescalero”

The title track from their 2003 album Mescalero, released under RCA Records, “Mescalero” is an energetic and hard-hitting song. ZZ Top, comprising Gibbons, Hill, and Beard, infused this track with a blend of hard rock and blues, showcasing their evolution as a band. The song features powerful guitar riffs, a driving rhythm, and a sense of raw energy. It’s a later ZZ Top track that captures the band’s enduring spirit and their ability to adapt their sound to the times. I chose “Mescalero” for its vigor and the way it demonstrates the band’s continued relevance in the rock and blues scene.

Fun Facts: Underrated Zz Top Songs

“Nasty Dogs and Funky Kings”

• Recording Anecdote: During the recording of “Nasty Dogs and Funky Kings,” ZZ Top was transitioning from their earlier blues sound to the more radio-friendly style that would later define albums like Eliminator. The song is a perfect example of this shift, blending traditional blues elements with a more mainstream rock appeal.
• Live Performance Rarity: Despite its popularity among die-hard fans, “Nasty Dogs and Funky Kings” was rarely performed live, making it a special treat whenever it was included in the band’s setlist.

“Blue Jean Blues”

• Guitar Praise: “Blue Jean Blues” is often cited by guitar enthusiasts for Billy Gibbons’ emotive and technically proficient guitar solo. It’s considered one of his best, showcasing his ability to convey deep emotion through his instrument.
• Lyrical Depth: The song’s lyrics, which speak to heartbreak and longing, are a departure from the band’s more upbeat and humorous material, displaying their range as songwriters.

“My Head’s in Mississippi”

• Inspiration on the Road: The song was inspired during one of the band’s tours. As the story goes, they were on their way to a concert when the phrase “My head’s in Mississippi” popped up in a conversation, and it struck a chord with the band members.
• Chart Success: Despite being less known today, “My Head’s in Mississippi” actually fared quite well on the charts, reaching a respectable position and showing the band’s continued relevance in the rock scene of the early ’90s.

“I Need You Tonight”

• Eliminator’s Hidden Gem: While Eliminator is known for its synth-heavy, upbeat hits, “I Need You Tonight” stands out as the album’s bluesy ballad. Its inclusion in such a high-energy album showcases the band’s versatility.
• Guitar Tone Mastery: Gibbons’ guitar tone in this song is often praised for its warmth and depth, achieved through his choice of equipment and playing technique.

“2000 Blues”

• The Turn of a Millennium: “2000 Blues” reflects the band’s contemplation of the approaching new millennium, a theme not commonly explored in their earlier works. It’s a rare instance of ZZ Top engaging with broader cultural and temporal themes in their music.
• Smooth Blues Transition: This song is noted for its seamless transition from traditional blues into a more modern sound, indicating the band’s ability to evolve while staying true to their roots.

“Vincent Price Blues”

• Tribute to a Legend: The song is a tribute to Vincent Price, the legendary actor known for his roles in horror films. This choice of theme is unique in ZZ Top’s discography and showcases their ability to infuse their music with playful and unconventional subjects.
• Atmospheric Soundscaping: The use of guitar effects in this track creates a spooky, almost cinematic atmosphere, fitting the song’s homage to horror cinema.

“Apologies to Pearly”

• Instrumental Skill Showcase: As an instrumental track, “Apologies to Pearly” serves as a showcase for each band member’s technical skill, particularly highlighting Gibbons’ prowess with the slide guitar.
• Homage to a Pet: The song is named after Billy Gibbons’ pearl-handled revolver, adding a personal touch and a bit of ZZ Top’s characteristic quirkiness to the track.

“Sure Got Cold After the Rain Fell”

• Blues Storytelling: This song is a prime example of ZZ Top’s ability to tell a story through the blues. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of loneliness and lost love, themes common in blues music but explored with ZZ Top’s unique touch.
• Emotional Live Performances: When performed live, “Sure Got Cold After the Rain Fell” often featured extended guitar solos, with Gibbons using the opportunity to delve deeper into the song’s emotional core.

“Certified Blues”

• Debut Album Depth: “Certified Blues” is from ZZ Top’s first album, showcasing the raw and unpolished sound that would later be refined in their subsequent works. It’s a window into the band’s early days and their foundational blues influences.
• Lyrically Rich: The song is notable for its lyrical depth, exploring themes of authenticity and the blues musician’s experience, which resonates with blues enthusiasts for its genuineness.

“A Fool for Your Stockings”

• Fan Favorite: Despite not being a commercial hit, “A Fool for Your Stockings” has remained a fan favorite over the years, often cited for its smooth, laid-back vibe that’s distinct within the ZZ Top catalog.
• Live Performance Charm: The song gained a reputation for being a highlight in ZZ Top’s live performances, where they often extended the instrumental sections, allowing the band to improvise and connect with the audience on a deeper level.

And there you have it, fellow rock and blues lovers! Eleven underrated ZZ Top tracks that are sure to add some serious groove to your playlist. From soulful blues to hard-hitting rock, these songs showcase the depth and versatility of this legendary band. So crank up the volume and let ZZ Top take you on a musical journey like no other. Rock on!

Thanks for reading.

TBone