It's a safe bet that most kids probably aren't familiar with ZZ Top's work unless their parents are cool and let them listen to the likes of "La Grange" and "Sharp Dressed Man." However, the rock band was known just as much for their unique visual style as their music. Vocalist-guitarist Billy Gibbons and vocalist-bassist Dusty Hill both sported signature hats, sunglasses, and long beards. Drummer Frank Beard was the only one who didn't have a beard, which many have found interesting given his last name is "Beard."
The two physical beards in the band took on a life of their own. The Gillette Company once offered the two bandmates $1 million to shave their beards, but they turned them down. The humorous reasoning behind the refusal is that the two of them just wouldn't look good without beards.
ZZ Top has certainly made its mark on pop culture beyond music. In addition to the brief shoutout in "SpongeBob: Sponge Out of Water," ZZ Top also appeared as an Old West band in "Back to the Future Part III," playing an acoustic version of their song "Doubleback." They also had a memorable role on "King of the Hill," where it's revealed Dusty Hill is actually Hank Hill's cousin. It's clear these guys have a sense of humor surrounding their reputation, and it's great to see them continuing to be recognized for their iconic style.
