Chicago, IL – The iconic Billy F. Gibbons, alongside his stellar band the BFG’s, electrified the historic Park West in Chicago with a performance that was equal parts gritty blues, rock ‘n’ roll swagger, and southern charm. The venue, a Chicago landmark since opening in 1916, originally operated as a vaudeville and movie theater before transforming into one of the city’s premier concert venues known for its intimate setting and impeccable acoustics. This backdrop provided the perfect ambiance for an intimate night drenched in raw, unfiltered, rock and blues.
Gibbons, the legendary ZZ Top guitarist and frontman, brought his signature gravelly vocals and blistering guitar licks, was joined on stage by Mike “The Drifter” Flanigin on the bass and Hammond organ, who added a rich, textured layer to the band’s sound, seamlessly transitioning from deep, rhythmic basslines to swirling organ solos that complemented Gibbons’ guitar work. Legendary drummer Chris “Whipper” Layton, known for his tenure with Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble, and The Kenny Wayne Shepherd Band, anchored the performance keeping the rhythm section in check with thunderous precision and dynamic flair.
Together, the band wasted no time diving into a setlist that paid homage to Gibbons’ ZZ Top roots. Opening the set with “Waitin’ For The Bus” from the 1973 album Tres Hombres, the band then upped the energy as Gibbons and his band delivered their rendition of “Jesus Just Left Chicago,” drenched in bluesy, soulful tones that paid homage to the city itself, and echoing through the art deco arches of Park West.
The band thrilled fans with “Sharp Dressed Man” and “Cheap Sunglasses,” both delivered with the raw, unpolished edge that live performances crave. A surprise highlight was their rendition of Jimi Hendrix’s “Foxy Lady,” where Gibbons’ fiery fretwork paid respectful homage to Hendrix’s psychedelic genius.
After a raucous main set and a “Thank you” bow to the crowd who weren’t quite ready to leave just yet – as Gibbons stated, “Well we can’t leave if someone locks the doors!” The band then launched into a raucous version of Johnny Cash’s “Folsom Prison Blues,” blending rockabilly rhythms with blues grit. This was followed by ZZ Top classics “Brown Sugar” and “Thunderbird,” both delivered with an intensity that felt fresh yet nostalgically familiar.
Billy F. Gibbons and the BFG’s left the stage to a standing ovation, delivering a performance that was a testament to rock ‘n’ roll’s enduring spirit. The show wasn’t just a concert, but a masterclass in blues-infused rock, delivered by legendary musicians. The Park West, with its rich history and intimate ambiance, proved to be the perfect backdrop for this unforgettable concert, and it will be a night remembered by all who were fortunate enough to attend.
Billy F. Gibbons | Mike “The Drifter” Flanigin | Chris “Whipper” Layton
Setlist:
Waitin’ For The Bus
Jesus Just Left Chicago
Gimme All Your Lovin’
Cheap Sunglasses
I Got Love If You Want It (Slim Harpo cover)
Blue Jean Blues
Foxy Lady (Jimi Hendrix cover)
Beer Drinkers & Hell Raisers
Nasty Dogs and Funky Kings
I Gotsta Get Paid
Francine
Just Got Paid
Sharp Dressed Man
La Grange
Encore:
Folsom Prison Blues (Johnny Cash cover)
Brown Sugar
Thunderbird
