Even after five decades of heavy riffs and bearded swagger, ZZ Top proved at Red Rocks Amphitheatre that they haven’t lost a single shred of their blues-rock magic. As part of their Elevation Tour, the Texas trio played to a packed crowd that ranged from lifelong fans to newcomers eager to witness rock royalty in the flesh.
Frontman Billy Gibbons, now 75, was as sharp and charismatic as ever, opening with the hard-hitting “Got Me Under Pressure.” His signature guitar licks cut through the crisp mountain air, while Elwood Francis, who stepped into the late Dusty Hill’s boots, brought a wild edge with his towering 15-string bass.
The show felt less like a nostalgic cash grab and more like a celebration of endurance, grit, and good old-fashioned rock ‘n’ roll. From “Sharp Dressed Man” to “La Grange,” the setlist leaned into their gritty roots while still feeling fresh and electric.
Opening act Eddie 9V added soulful heat to the night, warming up the crowd with blues steeped in tradition and originality.
With walking canes clashing with air guitars in the crowd, it was clear: ZZ Top may be little ol’ legends from Texas, but their legacy is still climbing sky-high.
—
Photo Credit: TDC Photography / Shutterstock.com