It has been used in many movies, including: Shanghai Noon, Striptease, Armageddon, Man of the House, The Dukes of Hazzard, Dogtown and Z-Boys, and the trailers for Planet 51, The Rundown, and Home on the Range. A modified version of the song appears in the 2004 remake of Walking Tall. Professional wrestler David Von Erich and his brother Kerry used this as their theme song in World Class Championship Wrestling and All Japan Pro Wrestling. Professional wrestler Barry Windham used an instrumental cover of "La Grange" as his theme music in the NWA's Jim Crockett Promotions territory and its successor, World Championship Wrestling. In 2009, it was heard in a television commercial for Samsung widescreen TVs. This song is also featured in the NASCAR The Game: 2011 soundtrack. The beginning of song was played by Billy Gibbons in an episode of Bones named "Stargazer in a Puddle". When Gibbons and Hill hosted an episode of WWE Raw in 2009, they played this song with Santino Marella (who was substituting for the absent Frank Beard). The song is in many Wrangler Jeans commercials with athletes including Brett Favre, and Dale Earnhardt Jr. Plus much more.....
They lost some die hard fans when they commercialized. calling the band a sell-out... Several bands did as well...but the Times, they are a changing iykwim...
On Paul McCartny's last birthday someone asked him how it felt to be in the greatest band of all time. And Paul said. I must be geting old. I don't remember being in ZZ Top.
I got Eliminator in 6th grade from a girl as a Christmas present the year it was released. Been a fan for 40 yrs. My 17yo is now a big fan of the lil band from Tejas!
The thing is, back then it was just another song on the radio--not because it wasn't great, but because so many of the songs on the radio were great. We were smothered in great songs back then.
Imagine being 19 years old, in the Army, standing with the company for monthly formation. The guy who just got off CQ duty opens his barracks windows and on a fine April morning CRANKS this tune. Not a sound but the Captain’s voice trying to compete with ZZ Top. 3rd platoon sergeant busts a move into the barracks and 20 seconds later the fun was over. Good times though 😂
You are speaking of Billy Gibbons. While in concert in Texas in 1966, Jimi heard ZZ Topp playing some small bar, and was so infatuated with them, he asked these three 18-year-old guys to be his warmup act on his British tour. They did, and Jimi and Billy Gibbons became pretty good friends. Jimi and Billy traded their secret guitar Riffs with each other, like chefs share recipes, but only with the people they like and trust.
Thats Not how they met. Billy Gibbons band MOVING SIDEWALKS was opening for Hendrix at the LA Forum in 1969. They struck a friendship and mutual admiration. Hendrix in England in 1966, still a relatively unknown guitarist.
@HvyMetal4Ever I think most of these guys rexpected and had a mutual admiration society for each other. I would have loved to have been in the studio to watch Led Zeppelin record their first 2 albums. Or Black Sabbath and Judas Priest. I'm a musician myself but I would have loved to watch their process.
The song is about an actual brothel outside of La Grange, TX that operated with the local sheriff simply pretending it didn't exist and was friends with the madam in charge of the girls making sure no riffraff was allowed in her house.. At one point a local TV reporter made it his mission to get the brothel closed down and all the publicity brought an end to the place everyone called the chicken ranch (because there were chickens on the property). The movie (and play) "The Best Little Whorehouse In Texas" is based on the story of the chicken ranch. If I recall correctly the house was eventually moved to Nevada.
The story I heard was that during the Great Depression a lot of their clientele brought them chickens and other farm goods to pay for the girl's services. Don't know if that's true. My father told me that and he had met the old sheriff, but my dad has been known to tell some tall tales.
@paigeharrison3909 that is correct. During the depression, men were able to "rent time with a hole" for 2 chickens. The wemons would then sell the chicken eggs.
In St Landry parish Louisiana the sheriffs were responsible for the operation of brothels. The sheriff got a cut for his election expenses and a slush fund. Another cut went to a benevolent fund, to be used for helping families with housefires, burial expenses for the widows's husbands etc. The most well known sheriff under this system was Cat Doucet. At late as the 1970s he gave interviews where he more or less admitted it.
The "how, how, how and hmm, hmm, hmm is a tribute to old blues singers like John Lee Hooker who would put in those little additions whenever he felt like it.
A fantastic band with a huge catalog, including pop success in the 80s. Billy Gibbons is a superlative guitarist, and was one of Hendrix's favourites. Like Iommi, he is a riff master. Great song.
Guitarist Billy Gibbons has a unique picking style where he extend his middle finger out a little bit when holding his pick and sort of lightly touches the stinks with his nail as he is picking. This gives it a slight muting effect and also givse us some small overtones that are a bit different than a normally plucked string. It's one of those hundred of little things that gives every player a slightly different sound even when playing the exact same music.
You are right on point when you say this is 'turnpike music.' If you have a long drive ahead, there's nothing better to fire up than ZZ Top to help you roll on down the road. I've been listening to them for fifty years and they're still great.
This is the blues with ZZ Top cranking the pace up a lot. The way he sings this and the sounds he makes are,all nods to the legendary Texas bluesman John Lee Hooker. The song is a about a chicken ranch in LaGrange, Texas. Also legendary. Lol. Thanks for the reaction.
Except that John Lee Hooker was from Detroit.... he was born down south but came to Detroit to work on the GM automobile assembly lines at a very young age.
@@smashtoad You're comparing a prog to a blues trio. Two different styles. I happen to love Rush and Neal Peart was in a class of his own on drums. They are both excellent at what they do or they would not still be around today.
I saw this Band back in 1976 in Seattle. I've seen The Who, Led Zeppelin, Credence Clearwater, Heart, Fleetwood Mac and many more. These guys put on show with live cattle, and other animals on stage. It was so cool. This 3-man Band from Texas was one of the best bands in the "Classic Rock" era.
Saw the same tour in WV, they had a longhorn steer, a buffalo and vultures tethered to perches. And then when I moved to Houston, their hometown, I caught the Afterburner tour about 10 years later.
@@robertsuitsjr6117Saw that tour in Ft. Worth. Had the vultures on either side of the stage. Occasionally a fan behind them would come on and the birds would spread then flap their wings. These vultures were BIG!
We grew up in the 80's, and their music then was so great! But since we've been exploring music more indepth, we've discovered so much more about this incredible band! This one we've known for a number of years now. I (Chris) was in a band in my past whose members were rock FANATICS, and our guitarist, Pete, would play his old rock favourites while we drove to and from rehearsal. We all got such a huge lesson in rock music in that Beetle. We hope you explore more from this group. One of the best mixtures of Blues and Rock we've ever heard. Enjoy!
two things i love about your reactions: 1), that occasional glance at the camera (and us) that says, "my mind is being BLOWN right now," and 2) when you hear something and all you can do is just laugh because words just fail to do justice to the emotions and thoughts happening. i feel you, bro.
Finally had the opportunity to see ZZ when they played in my little town up North several years back. Outdoor venue, small-ish, nice sunset, and my mind was blown. I wasn't sure what to expect, as I had been a listener for decades, but they might not be able to bring it anymore. I was wrong, way, way wrong.
"Beer Drinkers and Hell Raisers" is my favorite ZZ Top song, but a vast majority of their catalog is fire. (Billy and Dusty go back and forth singing the verses in that one, good times)
I knew you had heard it. I don't know anyone who hasn't :-) Imagine (with your knowledge of 70s music so far) this bursting out of the radio in 1973. Heck yeah, more please. "Sharp-Dressed Man," "Cheap Sunglasses," "Tush," "I'm Bad, I'm Nationwide."
Can't believe that there are people on the earth that doesn't know ZZ top.. I don't know how that's possible ❤️. This isn't even the best of them, but it's up there... 1971
Hot and nasty Texas blues rock, the best there ever was. The tune's a masterpiece, too. You'll wanna hear Waiting for the Bus and Jesus Just Left Chicago...maybe Tejas. Maybe if you get in the mood, Master of Sparks. There are plenty more, but I'm really only into the early stuff.
My favorite ZZ Top tune. I actually got to sing this song live alongside a friend's band at a neighbourhood bash when I was 17. I've seen them a couple times live and they are one of THE TRUE FEEL GOOD BANDS. RIP Dusty.
Thanks for listening with us. Have loved this band since mid 70’s. My friend was a guitar player. He would listen and play. I was so lucky to hear them as a teenager. 🎉❤
Crazy watching him react to songs that I’ve loved my whole life and heard so many times they are part of my DNA. I love knowing what is coming next and anticipating his upcoming reaction!
Plenty of ZZ Top songs that range from bluesy, boogie rock to modern, synth-influenced pop rock songs... Early ZZ Top songs - 'Tush' ... 'Cheap sunglasses' ... 'Waiting for the bus/ Jesus just left Chicago' ... "I'm bad, I'm nationwide" ... 🔥🔥 Other modern ZZ Top hits - 'Sleeping bag' ... "My head's in Mississippi" ... 'Velcro fly' ... 'Rough boy' ... 'Got me under pressure'... 🎸🎸
The movie was based on a Tony award winning Broadway musical which was based on a Texas Monthly magazine article which was based on TV news reporting from Marvin Zindler. ZZ Top took inspiration from the magazine article, and I seriously doubt they were customers. Could be wrong though but La Grange is a few hours from Houston, no need to travel if you can get it locally.
@@robertsuitsjr6117 because of Texas urban sprawl it feels like it is 10 minutes outside of Katy and 10 minutes outside of Austin. Honestly Austin just feels like a western suburb of Houston. It’s not like living here in Alberta where you can drive for a few hours and see more bears than gas stations.
I miss my brother and sister. Both younger then me, passed from addiction. I literally made it out alive. 60 years old now. What you are doing right now is what we used to do, critique new songs. We would crank it up as loud as it wouldgo, cause that's what addicts (and recovering addicts do). Everything to the max. Thanks for the memories ❤
Met these guys when i was a kid. Like 9/10 yrs old.p my best friend's dads friends. Went camping, fishing and shooting. They jammed around the campfire. No clue who they were! Was like 1980 ish...
You've opened the ZZ Top floodgates! I've seen them in concert at least 30 times, starting in 1973. They will brighten up the room and get your on your feet. Hope you do many more of their songs. I suggest start with the early ones and keep going.
Walked out of my high school graduation in 1975, jumped in my buddy's '69 Camaro Z28, fired up this song and smoked the tires out of the parking lot. Takes me back every time I hear it.
That “how how how how!” Was a tribute and call back to John Lee Hooker a great bluesman and a strong influence on rock. ZZ Top was a serious power trio that loved to reference the greats that influenced them. Billy Gibbons the lead guitarist and vocals for ZZ Top is a serious music fan as well as performer, a real musician’s musician.
ZZ Top was a powerhouse blues band that put the pedal to the metal and never let up.....until 1980. After that they morphed into a mainstream pop band when videos came on the scene.
Grew up in West Texas, 60s, 70s, and 80s music has consumed my soul. ZZ Top, and Stevie Ray Vaughn are just a tad of how badass, blues and rock has changed the pace for many, many bands. ZZ Top played my high-school for 50 cents legend has it. I was 10-11 when this came out, and it was NOT acceptable behavior for a "child" to be influenced by the "devils" music. Man, I love that I never gave up my right to love and listen to all genre's of music. But this right here is just capital. Love you man. Peace and love.
They played all over Houston when I was in high school.....I heard this song live before Tres Hombres was released......If you are still up....React to "Jesus just left Chicago" or "Just got paid today" by ZZ....You will love it!!
Great suggestion on "Just Got Paid", my personal favorite! I actually met Billy and Dusty in the Hard Rock Cafe in Houston back in the late '80s. I was living in San Antonio at the time and in Houston for the weekend with some friends. They were super cool and nice!
@@tekulve2968 I went to St Thomas....Class of 74......It was fun being a teenager back in those days!!! Got to see a LOT of the big shows back then......Great memories for sure. Agree about the weed.....LOL
@@brettkenschaft4239 Billy still runs the streets in town.... From time to time he drops into the West Alabama Ice House for a few cold ones.....He usually keeps a low profile when he does and most people don't even recognize who he is.....and if they do they usually give him space to hang out and enjoy himself.... Might be why he goes there???? 😀😏
Took me to my senior ditch day in 1974 with a friend who I've lost. We're together every time I hear this song. Love to you Polo for reviving interest in these treasures.
Thank you sweetie, for a marvelous reaction to a marvelous song! I've seen ZZ Top many times through the years, and have never been let down. What you hear on the record is what you hear on the stage. They are now, and have always been, absolutely phenomenal.
Any old schoolers out there that had them on quadraphonic stereo? That sound system didn't last too long but man it was fun to play with isolating the channels. That drum solo and Edgar winter Frankenstein went around the room and then back and forth in the corners lol. ZZ top was always a favorite.
..."from a singer that sounds like he doesn't have any teeth in his mouth" had me wiping away tears of laughter. SO truly descriptive, Polo, though usually that singer sounds a bit more tooth-ful on other ZZ Top's tracks, just to let you know. ;) Terrific Texas blues-rock boogie band. This was their break-out hit, and the band left a long list of great songs in it's wake.
I used to go to concerts at Anaheim Stadium in the 70’s and they would have 4 or 5 bands playing for $15. I saw so many great bands including ZZ Top, Van Halen, Allman Brothers, Foghat, Boston. These reaction videos are so fun to watch.
And this track is 50 years told. Classics never grow old. Ever. This is still on the radio, after 50 years. I was born in '64. I grew up in the 70s. Were they playing songs from the 20s on the radio? Of course not. Are they playing 50 year old songs on the radio now? Definitely. And this is why.
Guitarist and co vocalist Billy Gibbons sings this and channels Leon Redbone while singing some classic Jonnie Lee Hooker isms:) Try "I'm Bad I'm Nation Wide", "Nasty Dogs Funky Kings", "Cheap Sunglasses" "Tush", "Beer Drinkers HellRaisers". The whole Fandango album is fire!
ZZ Top have had a 50 year career in music... This iconic Texas trio kept 1 line-up since 1970: Billy Gibbons (vocals & guitar), Dusty Hill (bass & vocals) and Frank Beard (drums)... ZZ Top sported huge beards on Gibbons and Hill since 1979 and became the band's image and it was ironic that Frank Beard has no beard 😂... Sadly, Dusty Hill passed away in 2021... ZZ Top have been touring without him since. Billy Gibbons (guitar) was 17 yrs old in 1968 when his band opened for Jimi Hendrix Experience on tour... The guitar legend Jimi Hendrix called Billy Gibbons his favorite guitar player and told all his peers that this kid from Texas would be huge... Tragically, Hendrix passed away in 1970 just as Gibbons formed ZZ Top w/ Hill and Beard and released their debut album in 1971. ZZ Top spent years on tour hoping to build an audience and 'La grange' became one their early hits on radio around 1973 from their 3rd album 'Tres hombres'... By 1975, the band was a live attraction and had scored gold-selling records in America w/ their brand of boogie rock mixed w/ blues, R&B and southern flair... In 1977, drummer Frank Beard checked into rehab for his addictions... Gibbons and Hill decided to take a break and wait until Beard was ready to work again. In 1979, ZZ Top finally regrouped to work on new music after 2 years w/ Frank Beard returning ... Billy Gibbons and Dusty Hill arrived sporting huge beards from not shaving for months... 😂They looked so striking when they rehearsed that they decided to keep the beards - it became ZZ Top's recognizable image... ZZ Top returned to tour for the album 'Deguello' that sold platinum. In 1983, ZZ Top heard the new synthesizer sounds of the early 80's and decided to use electronic influences on their '83 album 'Eliminator'... They also opted to use the new MTV platform and made these iconic music videos that made 'Eliminator' a huge hit, selling 10 million copies in the US w/ hit singles - "Gimme all your lovin' " ... 'Sharp-dressed man' ... and 'Legs'... They also featured Billy Gibbon's vintage car (the 'Eliminator') in the music videos... The next album 'Afterburner' in 1985 sold 5 million copies... the 'Recycler' album in 1990 sold platinum as ZZ Top's career peaked in the 80's. The 90's were not as kind to ZZ Top... subsequent albums sold poorly and after 2003, ZZ Top decided to focus on being a 'legacy' band and tour to promote their catalog of music... Their last album was 'La futura' in 2012. ZZ Top celebrated 50 years as a band w/ the documentary movie - 'ZZ Top: That little ol' band from Texas' in 2019. After bassist Dusty Hill passed away in 2021, ZZ Top stayed on tour and announced a forthcoming album w/ tracks recorded by Hill before his death.
Billy Gibbons is the lead singer/guitar. He is from Houston and was clasically trained. His partner was Dusty Hill who died in 2021. Their signature "look" was their long red beards and dark sunglasses. They are still known as "That Lil' Ol' Band from Texas." The subject of this song is a very famous whorehouse in Lagrange, Texas which was frequented by some very famous people back in the day. At one point in the song Billy says "they got a lotta nice girls down there......" Look for "Sharp Dressed Man." It rocks even harder and heavier than Lagrange.
Cheap Sunglasses, I Gotsa to Get Paid, Tube Snake Boogie, Manic Mechanic, Sharp Dressed Man, Thug, Waitin' for the Bus/Jesus Just Left Chicago, My Head's in Mississippi, Blue Jeans Blues, I'm Bad, I'm Nationwide, Beer Drinkers and Hell Raisers, A Fool for Your Stockings, I Need You Tonight, Tush, no particular order, but songs you should listen to Polo!
All of that beautiful sound came from only three men. Billy Gibbons on lead vocals and a true guitar GOD, Dusty Hill, R.I.P., on bass, and Frank Beard, the band member who did NOT have the long beard, on drums. I’ve seen them live twice and they ROCK. And I’d like to let POLO known that, AFAIK, Billy Gibbons has a full set of teeth! This band is one of the few good things to come out of Texas.
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They have so many great songs. Something a bit slower you might like is Blue Jean Blues. For another great driving song, check out I’m Bad I’m Nationwide.
You REALLY need to look at their Sharp Dressed Man video. You will see the Eliminator car, their iconic band moves, and the unique sound that can only be ZZ Top and has never been replicated.
Listen to the ZZ Top "Fandango" CD Song "Nasty Dogs & Funky Kings: Too. Feel the Music. That's Why They Are in the R & R Hall of Fame... TEXAS Rock & Blues.
Fool for your stockings, I'm bad, I'm nationwide, Wainting for the bus-Jesus just left Chicago, Pearl necklace....so many great tunes from the little ol' band from Texas.
It's a common pattern you see with a lot of good bands. Their early stuff is usually the best and then they have that one huge, break-out album where they go main-stream. For ZZ Top, that was Eliminator. A great album, but it lost something. For other bands I'm thinking of Metallica's black album, Def Leppard's Hysteria, U2's Joshua Tree, etc.
@norwegianblue2017. I don't listen to Metallica, but agree on DL and U2z although I like U2 up thru achtung, War and Unforgettable Fire were phenomenal. Shame what Bonos bozo politics did to their later image.
Okay, so I've seen them in concert when they were young when they're middle age. And when they're old and they have not changed, they are still Royalty of rock and roll.❤ Absolutely jaw, dropping great.😅
My friend new them and especially their producer in the early 90s in Nashville. They wouldn't even get together in the studio...Billy would come up with the riff, send it to Dusty who'd add bass and fwd that to Frank. Semi-finished song would be sent back to producer who'd mix it and it was all done separately. It's when they were putting out contracted lps with that same old formula that was cemented starting w Eliminator.
Kathy here - love this song and this band. ZZ top was one of the best bands back in the day. I am 68 years old, so this was my jam back in the day! LOL You need to check out a live version of this so you can see the band members! You will be shocked! LOL This song was about a 'love shack", well you know what I mean, out on the outskirts of town and the sheriff acted indifferent to it being there. And you can't beat the sound and the guitar riffs played in it. And watching you bounce to the beat and then the smile gets bigger when the riffs get better! Loved it! Thanks for your reaction!
LOVE LOVE LOVE me some ZZ TOP. A friend turned me on to them back in HS in 1982 after I moved from Cali to coastal NC. Even as a young black man in the 80's ZZ Tops groove was undeniable. Pick any song off of the Deguello album and you won't b disappointed. There is also a great documentary on the band that came out in 2019/20 called ZZ Top: That Little Ol Band from Texas.
It has been used in many movies, including: Shanghai Noon, Striptease, Armageddon, Man of the House, The Dukes of Hazzard, Dogtown and Z-Boys, and the trailers for Planet 51, The Rundown, and Home on the Range. A modified version of the song appears in the 2004 remake of Walking Tall. Professional wrestler David Von Erich and his brother Kerry used this as their theme song in World Class Championship Wrestling and All Japan Pro Wrestling. Professional wrestler Barry Windham used an instrumental cover of "La Grange" as his theme music in the NWA's Jim Crockett Promotions territory and its successor, World Championship Wrestling. In 2009, it was heard in a television commercial for Samsung widescreen TVs. This song is also featured in the NASCAR The Game: 2011 soundtrack. The beginning of song was played by Billy Gibbons in an episode of Bones named "Stargazer in a Puddle". When Gibbons and Hill hosted an episode of WWE Raw in 2009, they played this song with Santino Marella (who was substituting for the absent Frank Beard). The song is in many Wrangler Jeans commercials with athletes including Brett Favre, and Dale Earnhardt Jr. Plus much more.....
Geico commercial
Great breakdown. It's one of those songs
They lost some die hard fans when they commercialized. calling the band a sell-out...
Several bands did as well...but the Times, they are a changing iykwim...
The main riff is basically taken from John Lee Hooker’s classic “Boogie Chillen”
@@lmkeniston216 I just checked it out and sure enough, definitely from the tune you mention. Cool stuff.
“Waiting for the Bus/Jesus Just Left Chicago” a BOGO blues masterpiece.
Yep
hell yes
First song I heard after my Grandfather died. Huge influence in my life, and the song will always be tied to my memories of him.
Yes those 2 songs must be played together also.
Agreed
On Paul McCartny's last birthday someone asked him how it felt to be in the greatest band of all time. And Paul said. I must be geting old. I don't remember being in ZZ Top.
Did he really say that?
If true, that is a classy thing to say
😂❤❤❤
😂😂😂
Respect to both.
I say it so much...us Boomers were so spoiled with all of the BRILLIANT music we grew up with.
As a millennial raise by boomers my dad especially he raised me on the best music from the mid to late 1900s
Imagine being 15 years old in 1973 and hearing La Grange coming out of the car radio. 🤯 I was a ZZ Top fan for life.
Same here. Born in 58’. We were so lucky.
I got Eliminator in 6th grade from a girl as a Christmas present the year it was released. Been a fan for 40 yrs. My 17yo is now a big fan of the lil band from Tejas!
The thing is, back then it was just another song on the radio--not because it wasn't great, but because so many of the songs on the radio were great. We were smothered in great songs back then.
Ngl im 27 and i would smash, down bad
Imagine being 19 years old, in the Army, standing with the company for monthly formation. The guy who just got off CQ duty opens his barracks windows and on a fine April morning CRANKS this tune. Not a sound but the Captain’s voice trying to compete with ZZ Top. 3rd platoon sergeant busts a move into the barracks and 20 seconds later the fun was over. Good times though 😂
You are speaking of Billy Gibbons. While in concert in Texas in 1966, Jimi heard ZZ Topp playing some small bar, and was so infatuated with them, he asked these three 18-year-old guys to be his warmup act on his British tour. They did, and Jimi and Billy Gibbons became pretty good friends. Jimi and Billy traded their secret guitar Riffs with each other, like chefs share recipes, but only with the people they like and trust.
Thats Not how they met. Billy Gibbons band MOVING SIDEWALKS was opening for Hendrix at the LA Forum in 1969. They struck a friendship and mutual admiration. Hendrix in England in 1966, still a relatively unknown guitarist.
If I remember correctly, Jimi insisted that Billy have a room as close to him as possible. That way they could hang out and jam together.
@HvyMetal4Ever yes, From what I read, they spent a lot of time trying to figure out what Jeff Beck was playing.
@@neillenet291 I love the story Billy tells about meeting Prince. Oh, to be a fly on the wall for that one.
@HvyMetal4Ever I think most of these guys rexpected and had a mutual admiration society for each other. I would have loved to have been in the studio to watch Led Zeppelin record their first 2 albums. Or Black Sabbath and Judas Priest. I'm a musician myself but I would have loved to watch their process.
This song, especially the "Haw haw haw" part, I believe was a tribute to Blues Great John Lee Hooker
This sounds VERY much like John Lee Hooker!
Exactly. I think that is in "Boom Boom."
Boom Boom Boom Boom
I thought that part felt old school bluesy. I think you*r right. Great. Didn*t catch that before.
Tribute? OK😂 Stolen is more like it.
The song is about an actual brothel outside of La Grange, TX that operated with the local sheriff simply pretending it didn't exist and was friends with the madam in charge of the girls making sure no riffraff was allowed in her house.. At one point a local TV reporter made it his mission to get the brothel closed down and all the publicity brought an end to the place everyone called the chicken ranch (because there were chickens on the property). The movie (and play) "The Best Little Whorehouse In Texas" is based on the story of the chicken ranch. If I recall correctly the house was eventually moved to Nevada.
The story I heard was that during the Great Depression a lot of their clientele brought them chickens and other farm goods to pay for the girl's services. Don't know if that's true. My father told me that and he had met the old sheriff, but my dad has been known to tell some tall tales.
@paigeharrison3909 that is correct. During the depression, men were able to "rent time with a hole" for 2 chickens. The wemons would then sell the chicken eggs.
Marvin Zindler was the reporter who got it closed for nothing less than fame on TV and yrs later did the Slime in the Ice Machine reports😂
Marvin Zindler, Eye Witness News!
In St Landry parish Louisiana the sheriffs were responsible for the operation of brothels. The sheriff got a cut for his election expenses and a slush fund. Another cut went to a benevolent fund, to be used for helping families with housefires, burial expenses for the widows's husbands etc.
The most well known sheriff under this system was Cat Doucet. At late as the 1970s he gave interviews where he more or less admitted it.
The "how, how, how and hmm, hmm, hmm is a tribute to old blues singers like John Lee Hooker who would put in those little additions whenever he felt like it.
A fantastic band with a huge catalog, including pop success in the 80s. Billy Gibbons is a superlative guitarist, and was one of Hendrix's favourites. Like Iommi, he is a riff master. Great song.
Lol @ "rift" master
@@Tateorsomething Effing spell check.
@@fractaljack210 I assumed that but it still made me laugh
Even rifts bow down to the guitar mastery of the Reverend BFG!!
Saw them in concert last year for the first time. Great show and fantastic night.
The "How How How" bit is a nod to John Lee Hooker's much earlier song "Boom Boom". Look that one up as well.
ZZ TOP are the real deal. They have such a unique sound. Billy Gibbons is one of the best guitarists of all time. They are also the coolest band ever.
Seen 'em in concert a few times, and that is the truth...epitome of cool. And how three guys can make so much good sound is almost incomprehensible.
That guitar solo can be mentioned in any conversation about "the greatest' solo everrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr
ZZ Top, Stevie Ray Vaugn, Cream, When the Levee Breaks... Polo's findin' out about Blues Rock. Enjoy.
God I love ZZ Tops distortion. Just so clean and "fuzzy".
Guitarist Billy Gibbons has a unique picking style where he extend his middle finger out a little bit when holding his pick and sort of lightly touches the stinks with his nail as he is picking. This gives it a slight muting effect and also givse us some small overtones that are a bit different than a normally plucked string. It's one of those hundred of little things that gives every player a slightly different sound even when playing the exact same music.
True, a lot is technique
You are right on point when you say this is 'turnpike music.' If you have a long drive ahead, there's nothing better to fire up than ZZ Top to help you roll on down the road. I've been listening to them for fifty years and they're still great.
This is the blues with ZZ Top cranking the pace up a lot. The way he sings this and the sounds he makes are,all nods to the legendary Texas bluesman John Lee Hooker. The song is a about a chicken ranch in LaGrange, Texas. Also legendary. Lol. Thanks for the reaction.
This song is about a secret whore house that was called the Chicken Ranch.
you beat me too the John lee Hooker influence
Except that John Lee Hooker was from Detroit.... he was born down south but came to Detroit to work on the GM automobile assembly lines at a very young age.
This was "The Best Little Whore House in Texas" of movie (Dolly and Burt) fame.
The best 3 piece band to ever rock the planet. Not a single line up change in 4 decades plus, until Dusty Hill died in 2021.
They're great, but RUSH is a better trio, and it's not really close. JMO.
@@smashtoad You're comparing a prog to a blues trio. Two different styles. I happen to love Rush and Neal Peart was in a class of his own on drums. They are both excellent at what they do or they would not still be around today.
@@TheLowJacqI get it, but the statement was "best 3 piece band to ever rock the planet".
@@smashtoad yes and you have your opinion and I have mine. Someone else might have another. Don't belittle my opinion just because it isn't yours.
@@TheLowJacq copy that.
The Little Ole Band from Texas. Known for their beards and driving guitar riffs. I never get tired of them.
I've seen so many ZZ Top concerts and all have the same energy. RIP Dusty, you will be missed big time.
I saw this Band back in 1976 in Seattle. I've seen The Who, Led Zeppelin, Credence Clearwater, Heart, Fleetwood Mac and many more. These guys put on show with live cattle, and other animals on stage. It was so cool. This 3-man Band from Texas was one of the best bands in the "Classic Rock" era.
Saw the same tour in WV, they had a longhorn steer, a buffalo and vultures tethered to perches. And then when I moved to Houston, their hometown, I caught the Afterburner tour about 10 years later.
@@robertsuitsjr6117Saw that tour in Ft. Worth. Had the vultures on either side of the stage. Occasionally a fan behind them would come on and the birds would spread then flap their wings. These vultures were BIG!
The Noah's arc of rock. No one else left alive.
Polo’s smile while listening to ZZ Top just vindicates how great the music was when we were growing up.
We grew up in the 80's, and their music then was so great! But since we've been exploring music more indepth, we've discovered so much more about this incredible band! This one we've known for a number of years now. I (Chris) was in a band in my past whose members were rock FANATICS, and our guitarist, Pete, would play his old rock favourites while we drove to and from rehearsal. We all got such a huge lesson in rock music in that Beetle. We hope you explore more from this group. One of the best mixtures of Blues and Rock we've ever heard. Enjoy!
two things i love about your reactions: 1), that occasional glance at the camera (and us) that says, "my mind is being BLOWN right now," and 2) when you hear something and all you can do is just laugh because words just fail to do justice to the emotions and thoughts happening. i feel you, bro.
My favorite tracks are 'Waiting for the bus - Jesus just left Chicago' and 'I gotsta get paid' (not a misspell)
Billy Gibbons is brilliant and has very deep knowledge of blues roots. Fascinating guy to listen to.
Finally had the opportunity to see ZZ when they played in my little town up North several years back. Outdoor venue, small-ish, nice sunset, and my mind was blown. I wasn't sure what to expect, as I had been a listener for decades, but they might not be able to bring it anymore. I was wrong, way, way wrong.
That was the thing with ZZ when they first hit the scene - they were unlike anything else out there. Generated an immediate fan base.
All of this sound is coming out of three people. The lead guitarist (Billy Gibbons) Jimi Hendrix called the best guitarist in rock.
"Beer Drinkers and Hell Raisers" is my favorite ZZ Top song, but a vast majority of their catalog is fire. (Billy and Dusty go back and forth singing the verses in that one, good times)
👍My favorite too.
I knew you had heard it. I don't know anyone who hasn't :-) Imagine (with your knowledge of 70s music so far) this bursting out of the radio in 1973. Heck yeah, more please. "Sharp-Dressed Man," "Cheap Sunglasses," "Tush," "I'm Bad, I'm Nationwide."
Cheap sunglasses is probably my favorite
@@vulgarprophet2689 It's mine too :-)
When you talk about " Tush" how could you go wrong? Love them all.
Also, "Legs". Enjoy!
Party on the Patio 🤘
Can't believe that there are people on the earth that doesn't know ZZ top.. I don't know how that's possible ❤️. This isn't even the best of them, but it's up there... 1971
Hot and nasty Texas blues rock, the best there ever was. The tune's a masterpiece, too. You'll wanna hear Waiting for the Bus and Jesus Just Left Chicago...maybe Tejas. Maybe if you get in the mood, Master of Sparks. There are plenty more, but I'm really only into the early stuff.
Same here. The later stuff is still good, but too polished and MTV focused for my taste.
Now that's jammin' right there!!! I love zztop; they play on "back to the future"#3!
My favorite ZZ Top tune. I actually got to sing this song live alongside a friend's band at a neighbourhood bash when I was 17. I've seen them a couple times live and they are one of THE TRUE FEEL GOOD BANDS. RIP Dusty.
La Grange is one of my all-time favorite songs. I will never get tired of listening to it.
Badass and old school, ZZ Top in a nutshell
Thanks for listening with us. Have loved this band since mid 70’s. My friend was a guitar player. He would listen and play. I was so lucky to hear them as a teenager. 🎉❤
Crazy watching him react to songs that I’ve loved my whole life and heard so many times they are part of my DNA. I love knowing what is coming next and anticipating his upcoming reaction!
Plenty of ZZ Top songs that range from bluesy, boogie rock to modern, synth-influenced pop rock songs... Early ZZ Top songs -
'Tush' ... 'Cheap sunglasses' ... 'Waiting for the bus/ Jesus just left Chicago' ... "I'm bad, I'm nationwide" ... 🔥🔥
Other modern ZZ Top hits - 'Sleeping bag' ... "My head's in Mississippi" ... 'Velcro fly' ... 'Rough boy' ... 'Got me under pressure'... 🎸🎸
You kinda need to know the story behind this song to appreciate it. The Chicken Ranch. Marvin Zindler.
"Slime in the ice machine!"
I definitely need to be Marvin Zindler for Halloween next year. I wonder if I can talk my wife into being Slime In The Ice Machine!!
The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas was about the same place, wasn't it? Oh hey, if you like musicals...
The movie was based on a Tony award winning Broadway musical which was based on a Texas Monthly magazine article which was based on TV news reporting from Marvin Zindler. ZZ Top took inspiration from the magazine article, and I seriously doubt they were customers. Could be wrong though but La Grange is a few hours from Houston, no need to travel if you can get it locally.
@@robertsuitsjr6117 because of Texas urban sprawl it feels like it is 10 minutes outside of Katy and 10 minutes outside of Austin. Honestly Austin just feels like a western suburb of Houston. It’s not like living here in Alberta where you can drive for a few hours and see more bears than gas stations.
I miss my brother and sister. Both younger then me, passed from addiction. I literally made it out alive. 60 years old now. What you are doing right now is what we used to do, critique new songs. We would crank it up as loud as it wouldgo, cause that's what addicts (and recovering addicts do). Everything to the max. Thanks for the memories ❤
When I first saw them perform this track live at the Armadillo World HQ in Austin in the early 70’s, my reaction was almost the same as yours.
ZZ Top is one of the best things to come out of Texas. "How-how-how-how!"
Met these guys when i was a kid. Like 9/10 yrs old.p my best friend's dads friends. Went camping, fishing and shooting. They jammed around the campfire. No clue who they were! Was like 1980 ish...
From NE Ohio, so friggin excited to hear ZZ Top! 👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾
Nice reaction! Next step: WAITIN’ ON THE BUS/JESUS JUST LEFT CHICAGO 👍
Manic Mechanic...
has had my foot welded to the floor more times then i can count LOL
ZZ TOP ARE LEGENDS!
You've opened the ZZ Top floodgates! I've seen them in concert at least 30 times, starting in 1973. They will brighten up the room and get your on your feet. Hope you do many more of their songs. I suggest start with the early ones and keep going.
Walked out of my high school graduation in 1975, jumped in my buddy's '69 Camaro Z28, fired up this song and smoked the tires out of the parking lot. Takes me back every time I hear it.
That “how how how how!” Was a tribute and call back to John Lee Hooker a great bluesman and a strong influence on rock. ZZ Top was a serious power trio that loved to reference the greats that influenced them. Billy Gibbons the lead guitarist and vocals for ZZ Top is a serious music fan as well as performer, a real musician’s musician.
Billy would never stop
Waiting on a Bus/Jesus just left Chicago together are great.
ZZ Top was a powerhouse blues band that put the pedal to the metal and never let up.....until 1980. After that they morphed into a mainstream pop band when videos came on the scene.
Tush , lowdown in the streets, cheap sunglasses are all older pre MTV rhythm & blues.
Grew up in West Texas, 60s, 70s, and 80s music has consumed my soul. ZZ Top, and Stevie Ray Vaughn are just a tad of how badass, blues and rock has changed the pace for many, many bands. ZZ Top played my high-school for 50 cents legend has it. I was 10-11 when this came out, and it was NOT acceptable behavior for a "child" to be influenced by the "devils" music. Man, I love that I never gave up my right to love and listen to all genre's of music. But this right here is just capital. Love you man. Peace and love.
They played all over Houston when I was in high school.....I heard this song live before Tres Hombres was released......If you are still up....React to "Jesus just left Chicago" or "Just got paid today" by ZZ....You will love it!!
Great suggestion on "Just Got Paid", my personal favorite! I actually met Billy and Dusty in the Hard Rock Cafe in Houston back in the late '80s. I was living in San Antonio at the time and in Houston for the weekend with some friends. They were super cool and nice!
@@tekulve2968 I went to St Thomas....Class of 74......It was fun being a teenager back in those days!!!
Got to see a LOT of the big shows back then......Great memories for sure.
Agree about the weed.....LOL
@@brettkenschaft4239 Billy still runs the streets in town....
From time to time he drops into the West Alabama Ice House for a few cold ones.....He usually keeps a low profile when he does and most people don't even recognize who he is.....and if they do they usually give him space to hang out and enjoy himself....
Might be why he goes there???? 😀😏
You know it’s gonna be a good day when this one comes on the radio. Glad you enjoyed it.
Finally!!! Love this song!! Loved the reaction. :) More ZZ please.
This is one of those songs that I can't remember *not* knowing 😍 so glad you enjoyed it!
Here. We. Go.
Took me to my senior ditch day in 1974 with a friend who I've lost. We're together every time I hear this song. Love to you Polo for reviving interest in these treasures.
A 3 piece band! That little ole band from Texas!
Thank you sweetie, for a marvelous reaction to a marvelous song! I've seen ZZ Top many times through the years, and have never been let down. What you hear on the record is what you hear on the stage. They are now, and have always been, absolutely phenomenal.
This is why Baby Boomers still listen to 60's and 70's music because they were very talented ARTISTS and the music is still GREAT.
Any old schoolers out there that had them on quadraphonic stereo? That sound system didn't last too long but man it was fun to play with isolating the channels. That drum solo and Edgar winter Frankenstein went around the room and then back and forth in the corners lol. ZZ top was always a favorite.
My dad had a system like that and let us kids play our favorite albums as loud as we wanted. Miss that man! 🕊️🙏🏼❤
..."from a singer that sounds like he doesn't have any teeth in his mouth" had me wiping away tears of laughter. SO truly descriptive, Polo, though usually that singer sounds a bit more tooth-ful on other ZZ Top's tracks, just to let you know. ;) Terrific Texas blues-rock boogie band. This was their break-out hit, and the band left a long list of great songs in it's wake.
I used to go to concerts at Anaheim Stadium in the 70’s and they would have 4 or 5 bands playing for $15. I saw so many great bands including ZZ Top, Van Halen, Allman Brothers, Foghat, Boston. These reaction videos are so fun to watch.
Hello Polomm, Thank you for Jammin ZZ Top a A great song for them is Tush 🎉❤Maybe you could play that 1 thanks so much. Lots of Love ❤
And this track is 50 years told. Classics never grow old. Ever. This is still on the radio, after 50 years. I was born in '64. I grew up in the 70s. Were they playing songs from the 20s on the radio? Of course not. Are they playing 50 year old songs on the radio now? Definitely. And this is why.
ZZ TOP is one bad ass kicking band🤘❤️. If Texas had a sound😮
Billy Gibbons was only 23 when he sang this 50 years ago ….I think he had all his teef😂 Glad you checking this out
Sharp DressedMan and Tush should make your list.
Agreed!
Driving through Missouri, whenever we pass a La Grange road sign, I always do the ZZ Top finger point to my wife. Such a cool song.
Guitarist and co vocalist Billy Gibbons sings this and channels Leon Redbone while singing some classic Jonnie Lee Hooker isms:) Try "I'm Bad I'm Nation Wide", "Nasty Dogs Funky Kings", "Cheap Sunglasses" "Tush", "Beer Drinkers HellRaisers". The whole Fandango album is fire!
So great to see you react to this song - I saw you jump into the groove with a smile. Delightful.
Sooo many more great songs by this band you must listen to.. Cheap Sunglasses , Just Got Paid , I'm Bad I'm Nationwide , just to name a few to start.
Grt suggestions.✌🏻
Driving Music! I live in Texas, lots of long distance driving. Love ZZ Top !!! Been to many of their concerts way back when. Loved them all.
Blue Jean Blues
ZZ Top have had a 50 year career in music... This iconic Texas trio kept 1 line-up since 1970: Billy Gibbons (vocals & guitar), Dusty Hill (bass & vocals) and Frank Beard (drums)... ZZ Top sported huge beards on Gibbons and Hill since 1979 and became the band's image and it was ironic that Frank Beard has no beard 😂... Sadly, Dusty Hill passed away in 2021... ZZ Top have been touring without him since.
Billy Gibbons (guitar) was 17 yrs old in 1968 when his band opened for Jimi Hendrix Experience on tour... The guitar legend Jimi Hendrix called Billy Gibbons his favorite guitar player and told all his peers that this kid from Texas would be huge... Tragically, Hendrix passed away in 1970 just as Gibbons formed ZZ Top w/ Hill and Beard and released their debut album in 1971.
ZZ Top spent years on tour hoping to build an audience and 'La grange' became one their early hits on radio around 1973 from their 3rd album 'Tres hombres'... By 1975, the band was a live attraction and had scored gold-selling records in America w/ their brand of boogie rock mixed w/ blues, R&B and southern flair... In 1977, drummer Frank Beard checked into rehab for his addictions... Gibbons and Hill decided to take a break and wait until Beard was ready to work again.
In 1979, ZZ Top finally regrouped to work on new music after 2 years w/ Frank Beard returning ... Billy Gibbons and Dusty Hill arrived sporting huge beards from not shaving for months... 😂They looked so striking when they rehearsed that they decided to keep the beards - it became ZZ Top's recognizable image... ZZ Top returned to tour for the album 'Deguello' that sold platinum.
In 1983, ZZ Top heard the new synthesizer sounds of the early 80's and decided to use electronic influences on their '83 album 'Eliminator'... They also opted to use the new MTV platform and made these iconic music videos that made 'Eliminator' a huge hit, selling 10 million copies in the US w/ hit singles - "Gimme all your lovin' " ... 'Sharp-dressed man' ... and 'Legs'... They also featured Billy Gibbon's vintage car (the 'Eliminator') in the music videos... The next album 'Afterburner' in 1985 sold 5 million copies... the 'Recycler' album in 1990 sold platinum as ZZ Top's career peaked in the 80's.
The 90's were not as kind to ZZ Top... subsequent albums sold poorly and after 2003, ZZ Top decided to focus on being a 'legacy' band and tour to promote their catalog of music... Their last album was 'La futura' in 2012.
ZZ Top celebrated 50 years as a band w/ the documentary movie - 'ZZ Top: That little ol' band from Texas' in 2019.
After bassist Dusty Hill passed away in 2021, ZZ Top stayed on tour and announced a forthcoming album w/ tracks recorded by Hill before his death.
If you didn't know, "Jesus went down to Chicago". Get a ticket to ride that mofo my man.
“Jesus Just Left Chicago”…. but yeah 👍🏼
@@lynnhoffmann247 ha, super facepalm on me. I should lay off late night beers and youtube comments!
@@jabehauber 😂 It happens to the best of us 🙌🏼
Billy Gibbons is the lead singer/guitar. He is from Houston and was clasically trained. His partner was Dusty Hill who died in 2021. Their signature "look" was their long red beards and dark sunglasses. They are still known as "That Lil' Ol' Band from Texas." The subject of this song is a very famous whorehouse in Lagrange, Texas which was frequented by some very famous people back in the day. At one point in the song Billy says "they got a lotta nice girls down there......" Look for "Sharp Dressed Man." It rocks even harder and heavier than Lagrange.
I absolutely want to see more reactions to ZZ Top. They're in my top 5 all time. Check out my favorite Blue Jean Blues por favor.
Cheap Sunglasses, I Gotsa to Get Paid, Tube Snake Boogie, Manic Mechanic, Sharp Dressed Man, Thug, Waitin' for the Bus/Jesus Just Left Chicago, My Head's in Mississippi, Blue Jeans Blues, I'm Bad, I'm Nationwide, Beer Drinkers and Hell Raisers, A Fool for Your Stockings, I Need You Tonight, Tush, no particular order, but songs you should listen to Polo!
All of that beautiful sound came from only three men. Billy Gibbons on lead vocals and a true guitar GOD, Dusty Hill, R.I.P., on bass, and Frank Beard, the band member who did NOT have the long beard, on drums. I’ve seen them live twice and they ROCK. And I’d like to let POLO known that, AFAIK, Billy Gibbons has a full set of teeth! This band is one of the few good things to come out of Texas.
Soooooo many amazing bangers from the legendary ZZTop! You can't go wrong with any of it!
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El diablo is my fav
They have so many great songs. Something a bit slower you might like is Blue Jean Blues. For another great driving song, check out I’m Bad I’m Nationwide.
You REALLY need to look at their Sharp Dressed Man video. You will see the Eliminator car, their iconic band moves, and the unique sound that can only be ZZ Top and has never been replicated.
Listen to the ZZ Top "Fandango" CD Song "Nasty Dogs & Funky Kings: Too. Feel the Music. That's Why They Are in the R & R Hall of Fame... TEXAS Rock & Blues.
Love your channel, please do Depeche Mode.!!!
Fool for your stockings, I'm bad, I'm nationwide, Wainting for the bus-Jesus just left Chicago, Pearl necklace....so many great tunes from the little ol' band from Texas.
The general rule for ZZ Top is - the earlier the better. Like Chicago in the 80s, they kinda lost their edge.
It's a common pattern you see with a lot of good bands. Their early stuff is usually the best and then they have that one huge, break-out album where they go main-stream. For ZZ Top, that was Eliminator. A great album, but it lost something. For other bands I'm thinking of Metallica's black album, Def Leppard's Hysteria, U2's Joshua Tree, etc.
@norwegianblue2017. I don't listen to Metallica, but agree on DL and U2z although I like U2 up thru achtung, War and Unforgettable Fire were phenomenal. Shame what Bonos bozo politics did to their later image.
Okay, so I've seen them in concert when they were young when they're middle age. And when they're old and they have not changed, they are still Royalty of rock and roll.❤ Absolutely jaw, dropping great.😅
My friend new them and especially their producer in the early 90s in Nashville. They wouldn't even get together in the studio...Billy would come up with the riff, send it to Dusty who'd add bass and fwd that to Frank.
Semi-finished song would be sent back to producer who'd mix it and it was all done separately. It's when they were putting out contracted lps with that same old formula that was cemented starting w Eliminator.
@@wordup897Bono = pee dough
Kathy here - love this song and this band. ZZ top was one of the best bands back in the day. I am 68 years old, so this was my jam back in the day! LOL You need to check out a live version of this so you can see the band members! You will be shocked! LOL This song was about a 'love shack", well you know what I mean, out on the outskirts of town and the sheriff acted indifferent to it being there. And you can't beat the sound and the guitar riffs played in it. And watching you bounce to the beat and then the smile gets bigger when the riffs get better! Loved it! Thanks for your reaction!
The Good Reverend Billy Gibbons with Mr.Frank Beard and Mr. Dusty Hill on bass to complete the original Texas Boogie Band ZZTOP ! Amazing!
LOVE LOVE LOVE me some ZZ TOP. A friend turned me on to them back in HS in 1982 after I moved from Cali to coastal NC. Even as a young black man in the 80's ZZ Tops groove was undeniable. Pick any song off of the Deguello album and you won't b disappointed. There is also a great documentary on the band that came out in 2019/20 called ZZ Top: That Little Ol Band from Texas.
Mexican Blackbird, Blue Jean Blues, Waiting for the Bus/Jesus Just Left Chicago, Beer Drinkers & Hell Raisers
RIP Dusty…….so glad I saw ZZ in concert!
Sharp dressed man is another classic not to be missed!!
“It’s usually a good film.” 😂
You can never go wrong with ZZTOP. All of their tracks are Gold.
First time i heard this. 1975, in an old beater 64 mustang. The smell of gas and exhaust and La Grange on the 8 track track. Life was good!
I saw ZZ Top at least 7 times in the 70's .... .fabulous every time!
Yes sir. That little ol' 3 man band from Texas. I grew up on this stuff and absolutely love it to this day. They have so many great tunes