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Billy Gibbons Teams Up with Billy Bob Thornton and Mark Collie for New Song

Tilly antoine, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons
Tilly antoine, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons
ZZ Top frontman Billy Gibbons is “Livin' It Up Down in Texas” on his new single, a collaboration with actors Billy Bob Thornton and Mark Collie, both of whom star in the Paramount+ series Landman. The show's creator, Taylor Sheridan, who is also behind the acclaimed *Yellowstone* franchise, has adeptly woven the rock legend's sound into the series, providing the perfect backdrop for its rugged oilfield narratives. The song, which featured prominently in the Landman episode “WolfCamp,” encapsulates the essence of the Texan lifestyle depicted in the show.

Thornton, known for his diverse career in Hollywood, has roots in music, with experience playing in a ZZ Top tribute band named Tres Hombres. Gibbons fondly recalls it as “the best little cover band in Texas.” Mark Collie, a country music stalwart with hits recorded by legends like Alabama and Garth Brooks, brings his own musical prowess to the mix. Together, the trio captures the rich tapestry of Lone Star life in the song, emphasizing Texas's unique blend of grit and soul.

The release of “Livin' It Up Down In Texas” also marks a prelude to Gibbons' upcoming solo album, anticipated to be his fourth under Concord Records. His solo career has already produced acclaimed albums such as Perfectamundo, The Big Bad Blues, and Hardware, all of which have reinforced his reputation as a versatile artist capable of transcending genres. The new track, described by Gibbons as a “hard-hitting, hard rock bombast of sonic Texas soulfulness,” promises to follow this tradition, blending his gritty blues influence with the rock-solid narrative style that has characterized his recent work.

As Gibbons prepares to hit the road with his band, The BFGs, fans can look forward to a slew of live performances across the United States. Starting with a residency at the Blue Note Hawaii, the tour will showcase the dynamic synergy of Gibbons’ seasoned collaborators, Chris Layton on drums and Mike Flanigin on keyboards. Their tour will span several noteworthy venues, culminating in a final show in Bristol, Tennessee.

 

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