ZZ Top bassist Dusty Hill dead at 72

"We are saddened by the news today that our Compadre, Dusty Hill, has passed away in his sleep at home in Houston, TX," the statement, from surviving members Frank Beard and Billy Gibbons, said.

"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'."

The band was formed in 1969.

Hill joined not long after, staying with ZZ Top for more than five decades, until his death.