The common adage of 'three's a crowd', does not appear to fly with ZZ Top lead singer Billy Gibbons, who has always preferred it that way.
In fact, working as part of a trio has become a somewhat mission statement of Gibbons. Along with being part of a trio with ZZ Top, the rocker has adopted the same structure with his solo group, The BFG's.
According to Gibbons, there is something special about working with that number of people as part of a group.
"The presence and demand of giving it 110% is always the cornerstone", he said.
"Everybody has got to be on point. I think that the simplicity and the sparseness of the trio, it's always in the back of one's mind to know that you're given the opportunity to put your best foot forward. Anything short of that, it becomes a bit too skinny. We like the sound that's big and fat".
Elsewhere, Billy Gibbons paid homage to the musician Billy Bob Thornton for his work in the 1980s, forming a band known as Tres Hombres.
The band which originally formed in the 1970s under the name, 'Nothin Doin'. They changed their name after it was pointed out to them by a promoter that they sounded very similar to ZZ Top, and suggested that they ought to focus on being a tribute band.
Despite seeing an upward surge in show attendances, the band eventually disbanded, after an attempt to release an album of original songs did not go well.
Despite this, Billy Gibbons praised Thornton for his work, as they did what was uncommon at the time, in paying tribute to their favourite band.
"It's quite surprising to find that there's a number of what they're now referring to as tribute bands," he says. "To hear different versions of something that resides in the dark corners of the brain is somewhat invigorating. I find it rather delightful to hear different takes on some of these songs that have become somewhat standardized over the years. It's pretty cool".
Gibbons and Thornton, who remain long term friends, have also collaborated together, with Gibbons scribing the original song, 'Livin It Up Down in Texas' for TV show, Landman, which was written by Taylor Sheridan.
"It's quite surprising to find that there's a number of what they're now referring to as tribute bands," Gibbons said. "To hear different versions of something that resides in the dark corners of the brain is somewhat invigorating. I find it rather delightful to hear different takes on some of these songs that have become somewhat standardized over the years. It's pretty cool".
Looking ahead, Billy Gibbons spoke about the additions of Chris 'Whipper' Layton and guitarist Kenny Wayne Shepherd to the BFG line up, which also includes longtime musical associate Mike 'The Drifter' Flanigin.
"Chris has kept his chops up and is stronger than 40 acres of onions", Gibbons said.
Adding that their Austin residence provides as sweet backdrop, Gibbons also said: "These communities provide a nice backdrop for one of these creative gatherings. It's quite the reward. That Texas thing, whatever that thing may be, exists on a high point, particularly in Austin. I think convenience plays a big part in the creative spirit [that comes out]. 'Hey, let's go across town.' Instead of going state to state, you can just find your way to the studio or the work room in a few blocks".
