ZZ Top bassist Dusty Hill died in his sleep at his Houston home last night. The passing of Hill, who had left the group's tour late last week due to a hip problem, was confirmed in an announcement issued by Billy Gibbons and Frank Beard who wrote, "We are saddened by the news today that our Compadre, Dusty Hill, has passed away in his sleep at home in Houston, TX. We, along with legions of ZZ Top fans around the world, will miss your steadfast presence, your good nature and enduring commitment to providing that monumental bottom to the 'Top'. We will forever be connected to that "Blues Shuffle in C." You will be missed greatly, amigo".  R.I.P., Dusty.

What's better than a great guitar tech? A great one that also has the chops to fill-in when you can't do a concert. That was the case for ZZ Top bassist Dusty Hill Friday night (7/23). The Texas trio had a date in New Lennox, Illinois but Dusty was out of contention due to a hip injury. Billy Gibbons and Frank Beard called on the band's longtime guitar tech Elwood Francis to pinch hit on bass and slide guitar, and he even played harmonica during the set.

Mick Jagger's decade long curse on England's national soccer team came to an end with the team's recent victory, the first with the Stones Front man in attendance in 10 years, and Jagger broke the law to witness it in person. Mick flew home from France and went to the game in violation of a mandatory quarantine period before going out. He was fined a pittance more than $15,000 for his indiscretion - pocket change to him.

Jim Morrison's estate has authorized a yet to be titled biopic that will focus on the creative aspects of the late Doors front man's music, poetry and art. A production spokesman for the film company says the documentary will delve into recently discovered diaries and notes and will include footage and information about the charismatic singer that has never been revealed. A director hasn't been selected for the project, but the producers are looking for one that will take a much more nuanced approach to Morrison as an artist than Oliver Stone did in his over-the-top 1991 movie that cast Val Kilmer as the singer.

The Immediate Family, a band that includes an all-star lineup of studio greats, will release a self-titled album August 27 and the group will venture out on its first tour beyond California this fall.  Danny Kortchmar (guitar), Waddy Wachtel (guitar), Russ Kunkel (drums), Leland Sklar (bass) have earned legend status in the minds of the more familiar named stars whose albums and tours they have played on. Collectively, that list includes Jackson Browne, James Taylor, Keith Richards, Phil Collins, Warren Zevon, Don Henley and dozens more.  They are joined by guitarist Steve Postell on the album and tour.