Members of the blues-rock band ZZ Top can hardly be called style icons, and they do not look like ordinary fashionistas, although they periodically appear on stage in cool costumes. But it was these guys, most often dressed in leather and jeans, who sang a real hymn to the cool outfit – the composition Sharp Dressed Man (“Stylishly dressed man”).
The history of creation and the meaning of the song Sharp Dressed Man
Although the song is about a suit, cufflinks, tie and other classic rubbish, the musicians by no means encourage all men to dress only in this way.
Here is how Dusty Hill explained his understanding of the style:
The style of clothing depends on who you are. If you’re on a motorcycle, a really stylish leather is a great option. If you’re a punk rocker, you can be stylish in that vein. In any fashion, you can be stylish or not stylish. All this is in your head. If you feel stylish, you are stylish.
Spin, 1985
Release and achievements
The song Sharp Dressed Man was included on the Eliminator album released in 1983. It also released a single that peaked at number two on the Mainstream Rock chart. Currently, she is considered one of the calling cards of ZZ Top.
Clip Sharp Dressed Man – ZZ Top
The music video was directed by Tim Newman. The video continues the theme of the video for the song Gimme All Your Lovin’, in which three beauties take away a tanker with them. But we will not retell the plot of the well-known video clip, which at one time was constantly played on MTV.
Cover versions
Sharp Dressed Man has been performed by famous bands. Nickelback played the song at the VH1 Rock Honors.
Jessica Simpson sang it with ZZ Top, and on the tribute album ZZ Top: A Tribute from Friend, it was performed by a super-team called The MOB, consisting of Mick Fleetwood, John McVie, Johnny Lang and Steven Tyler.
The Soviet band “Earthlings” recorded their own version of Sharp Dressed Man called “Evil”.
Interesting Facts
- In 2013, the song was used in an advertisement for the computer game Crysis 3.
- The music video for Sharp Dressed Man features Playboy models Kimberley Herrin, Giana Tomasino and Daniele Arnaud.
- ZZ Top played Sharp Dressed Man at the VH1 Fashion Awards. At this time, male models defiled along the catwalk, and beautiful girls danced around the musicians.
Lyrics Sharp Dressed Man
Clean shirt, new shoes
And I don’t know where I am going to.
Silk suit, black tie,
I don’t need a reason why.
They come running just as fast as they can
‘cos every girl crazy ’bout a sharp dressed man.
Gold watch, diamond ring,
I ain’t missin’ not a single thing.
Cufflinks, stick pin
When I step out I’m gonna do you in.
They come running just as fast as they can
‘Coz every girl crazy ’bout a sharp dressed man.
top coat, top hat,
And I don’t worry coz my wallet’s fat.
Black shades, white gloves,
Lookin’ sharp lookin’ for love.
They come running just as fast as they can
‘Coz every girl crazy ’bout a sharp dressed man.
Translation of the song Sharp Dressed Man
Clean shirt, new shoes
And I don’t know where I’m going
Silk suit, black tie
I wear them for no particular reason.
They rush towards me,
After all, any girl is crazy about a stylishly dressed man.
Gold watch, diamond ring
I didn’t miss anything
Cufflinks, tie pin
When I go out, you’re done
They rush towards me,
After all, any girl is crazy about a stylishly dressed man.
Light coat, top hat,
And a fat wallet keeps me from worrying about nothing
Black glasses, white gloves
Looking classy looking for love
They rush towards me,
After all, any girl is crazy about a stylishly dressed man.