ZZ Top’s 1983 Diamond-certified Eliminator marked a new chapter for the band, not just musicially, but sold 10 times more than their biggest album at the time, and changed the landscape of rock music in the 80s. Packed with iconic hits like “Sharp Dressed Man” and “Legs,” the album combined blues rock roots with cutting-edge technology. Let’s dive into five little-known facts that make Eliminator a timeless classic.
1. A Drag Racer Inspired the Album’s Title
The name Eliminator came from a drag racing term that embodies competition and speed. The band’s manager, Bill Ham, suggested the name after seeing Billy Gibbons’s newly customized 1933 Ford coupe, which eventually graced the album cover. The coupe, nicknamed Eliminator, became a star in its own right, appearing in music videos and even in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
2. The Perfect Tempo Was No Accident
Billy Gibbons and engineer Linden Hudson meticulously analyzed hit songs to determine the ideal tempo for Eliminator. They found that many popular tracks hovered around 120-125 beats per minute and used this insight to craft the album’s steady, driving rhythm. Tracks like “Legs” and “Sharp Dressed Man” exemplify this tempo sweet spot, giving the album its infectious energy and widespread appeal.
3. Inspired by European Electronic Music
Billy Gibbons drew inspiration for Eliminator from European electronic acts like Depeche Mode and Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark. Fascinated by their innovative use of synthesizers and drum machines, Gibbons blended these modern elements with ZZ Top’s blues-rock roots. This fusion created a unique sound that pushed the boundaries of rock music and helped the album stand out in the 80s music scene.
4. The “Legs” Synth Effect Was a DIY Marvel
The iconic pulsing synth sound on “Legs” wasn’t created with off-the-shelf gear. Linden Hudson routed a synthesizer through a noise gate triggered by hi-hat samples from a drum machine, creating the track’s relentless propulsion. This unconventional method gave “Legs” its hypnotic groove, which became a defining feature of the song. It’s a testament to how ingenuity in the studio can lead to groundbreaking results.
5. MTV Made ZZ Top Superstars
Music videos for “Gimme All Your Lovin’,” “Sharp Dressed Man,” and “Legs” became staples on MTV, showcasing a mix of rock, cars, and swagger. Directed by Tim Newman, the videos featured the Eliminator coupe, spinning guitars, and a trio of mysterious women who became icons in their own right. These visuals helped ZZ Top shed their “old-school” image, earning them awards and introducing their music to millions of young fans.
Eliminator redefined ZZ Top’s place in music history. From drag racing inspiration to revolutionary studio techniques, the record is a masterclass in reinvention. Whether you’re blasting “Sharp Dressed Man” or marveling at the Eliminator coupe, this album proves that innovation and grit are a winning combination.