“The success of ‘Eliminator’ remains a solid statement to the time.

“The use of synth sounds and sequencers secretly sneaked in studios around the world inspiring a legion of global playing outfits with Depeche Mode capturing a special inspiring mystique. “Yes, they did (impact ZZ Top),” Gibbons said. The word was that ZZ Top was influenced by British synth legends Depeche Mode when writing the “Eliminator” album. “And the most important element is we have a good time!” The good times have always been evident during their greasy, grungy fusion of blues-rock, such as the playful and powerful “Tush,” the amusing but potent “Cheap Sunglasses” and their nod to John Lee Hooker, “Le Grange.” And then there is their 1983 commercial breakthrough “Eliminator,” which featured their biggest hits, “Legs,” “Under Pressure” and “Sharp Dressed Man.” We’re constantly in the studio and onstage together, yet we have space in between for diversions to the nth degree, mainly comparing notes surrounding recipes from South of the Border! Second, three guys, three touring coaches (as in buses). “First, we’re an odd number, so there can’t be any ties when we vote on what to do, so there can’t be factions. How has the band, which has sold more than 50 million albums, been able to sustain for 52 years? “Three factors encapsulate the fact that we’ve never broken up, ergo never had to get back together for the inevitable reunion tour,” Gibbons said while calling from his Los Angeles home. “We’re comin’ on strong and quite excited to get out there and play for real friends, fans and followers, live and in-person,” Gibbons said. And ZZ Top, who headline Thursday at First Interstate Center for the Arts, is now rolling along with bassist Elwood Francis. From 1970 until 2021, it was vocalist-guitarist Billy Gibbons, bassist Dusty Hill and drummer Frank Beard as ZZ Top. After more than a half-century, ZZ Top’s lineup was intact.

Zz top drummer