Billy Gibbons recently revealed that ZZ Top turned down a $1 million offer from Gillette in the 1980s. The razor company wanted each band member to shave their beards on live TV. Gibbons shared this during a recent interview, saying, “They deny it. It was a million dollars per man.”
Before making their decision, the Texas trio consulted rock publicist Bob Merlis. He advised them to think it over, saying, “The money’s good, you might as well consider doing it, but I’m not so sure any of you guys know what’s under there.” In the end, they decided to pass on the offer, and their fans loved them for it.
At that time, ZZ Top was a major force on MTV, and their beards were as iconic as the flashy cars and pin-up visuals in their videos. Gibbons and the late bassist Dusty Hill started growing their beards in the mid-1970s. When asked why, Gibbons simply said, “One word: lazy.” What began as a disguise turned into a trademark for the band.
Interestingly, drummer Frank Beard has always been clean-shaven, which has become a running joke in rock circles. Dusty Hill passed away in July 2021 at the age of 72. Elwood Francis has since taken over on bass and has grown his own beard, keeping the band’s signature look alive.
ZZ Top is set to hit the road this year with multiple tours planned. Their beards remain intact, proving that their unique style was worth more than any advertising deal. Fans can look forward to catching them live!
