You never know who’ll walk into our studios – welcome to The Back Forty. This is where we highlight artists who walk the line outside of today’s country chart with their music, as well as the folks who have made an impact on country music – yesterday and today.
Those guitar chops. That beard. “Haw haw haw”… If you hear it or see it, you know it’s the great Billy F Gibbons. He’s been making waves in music and pop culture for 50-plus years, most notably with that little ol’ band from Texas ZZ Top.
On June 4th, Gibbons released his third solo album Hardware. The project features 12 rock-focused originals, 11 of which were written by Gibbons. Its sound was heavily influenced by the location of the recording sessions at Escape Studios in California’s high desert, near Palm Springs.
But, that’s not the only highlight for fans this year. In May, Eric Church, Brad Paisley, Chris Janson, Lucinda Williams and more gathered at the Grand Ole Opry House to salute the talents of Gibbons. The tribute show is tapped for theatrical release in the months ahead.
Recently, Kix caught up with his longtime friend and former touring cohort to do some reminiscing, as well as talk music and gear. Plus, they keep things spicy as they break down hot sauce and discuss a guacamole that Kix just can’t forget.
Billy F Gibbons’ latest album, Hardware, is available now. Listen to select tracks from the project here. For more, check out BillyGibbons.com.
Main Image: Blain Clausen / Concord Records